Chidinma Iroegbu
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, Joshua MacIver, has declared support for the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing the bid as “non-negotiable.”
MacIver, who was the APC deputy governorship candidate in 2023, made the position known in a statement addressing party developments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In the statement titled “Bayelsa APC Congresses: Going Forward, A Call to Look Inwards,” he urged party leaders to resolve internal issues that could affect electoral performance.
He warned that unresolved internal divisions within the party could weaken its chances despite its perceived strength in the state.
According to him, the APC in Bayelsa previously operated under two major political blocs with an estimated 95 per cent to 5 per cent structure.
He, however, alleged that the current arrangement within the party now favours a smaller bloc, leaving a larger segment sidelined.
“Only the smaller bloc is being carried along… leaving the greater percentage to their fate,” he said, warning that the situation could fuel dissatisfaction.
MacIver linked the development to recent defections within the party, adding that more exits could occur if the issues are not addressed.
“The consequence of this has been the high level of defection… and more may likely follow if we do not put our house in order,” he stated.
He cautioned that failure to maintain unity could lead to the loss of key stakeholders, particularly after party primaries at state and national levels.
While reaffirming loyalty to the APC, MacIver stressed that internal cohesion remains critical to achieving electoral success in 2027.
“Our core interest remains the re-election of Mr. President… but we must ensure we do not create loopholes that can impede our common goal,” he added.
He also congratulated the newly elected state executives of the party, led by Warman Ogoriba, noting that their emergence comes at a crucial time for party consolidation.