Timipre Sylva, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Bayelsa State, has accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Nigerian Military of interfering with voters during the ongoing governorship election.
Sylva made these allegations after casting his vote at Polling Unit 4, Dukuraku Central Open Space, Okpoama, Ward 4, Brass Local Government Area. The former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources expressed his confidence in the APC’s prospects but highlighted issues in units 3, 5, and 9 where registers were not uploaded. He stated that the contest seemed to be between the APC and security agents, particularly the military.
While Sylva reported a smooth process in his unit, he noted instances of violence and voter intimidation across the state, with the PDP allegedly using security forces for such purposes. Sylva emphasized that the election appeared to be not just against the PDP but also against the security apparatus. Despite these challenges, he expressed determination, believing that the APC would emerge victorious in the end.
Sylva also mentioned incidents of violence, including the shooting of an APC member in Yenagoa. Additionally, he reported military personnel taking control of certain areas, such as Biseni community, where they were allegedly involved in attempting to snatch ballot boxes.