2nd November, 2011
Bayelsans appear to be unruffled about the purported disqualification of Governor Timipre Sylva of Bayelsa state from contesting the forthcoming Bayelsa gubernatorial primaries by Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
Most Bayelsans, especially residents of Yenagoa, the state capital, don’t seem to care about the governor’s political future.
Most of the people in the state capital, Yenagoa, who spoke with P.m.News this morning said that they were not bothered about what happens to Governor Sylva and the political class because some of them have tasted power but failed to improve their lot, while some of those lining up have not actually proved their mettle in political office.
According to Dr John Idumange, a university lecturer, social critic and a human rights crusader, “Governor Sylva’s claim that he is still in the race is a mere ranting because he knows that it is all over. His leadership was a disaster to the people of the state.
“Besides, it has been generally agreed that the governorship ticket should go to Bayelsa East Senatorial District where Hon. Seriake Dickson comes from and has not produced a Governor.
“Sylva is from Bayelsa East, just as President Goodluck Jonathan. The former governor, Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha comes from Bayelsa Central.â€
Idumange, who was a former aide to Sylva, added that “Sylva would have argued for a second term in office if he had performed very well in the last four years, but unfortunately, his leadership was a disaster in the last four years. He does not deserve to come backâ€.
The university lecturer rules out the fact there may be violence in the state now that Sylva has been disqualified because “the majority of Bayelsans will not miss him. He has not left any good legacy for us to miss him or sympathise with him.â€
Most Bayelsans are indifferent to the fate that is about to befall Sylva and they share Idumange’ sentiment.
—Okafor Ofiebor/ Port Harcourt