The All Progressives Congress (APC) has called on its members in Bayelsa State to refrain from participating in the planned nationwide protest, instead advocating for a rally to show support for President Bola Tinubu.
During a press briefing held in Yenagoa on Wednesday, Mr. Dennis Otiotio, the state party chairman, stated that any APC member who engages in protests within Bayelsa will face appropriate disciplinary measures.
Otiotio emphasized that the purpose of the news conference was to clarify the party’s stance regarding the proposed protests and to communicate this message to both the public and party members.
“We oppose the nationwide protest not because individuals lack the right to demonstrate, but because we are committed democrats and progressives. Our President, Bola Tinubu, embodies these values,” he remarked.
He continued, “While we acknowledge the right to peaceful and lawful assembly and expression of grievances, we firmly believe that any protests must operate within the legal framework.”
Citing the memory of the EndSARS protests in 2020 and the recent demonstrations in Kenya, he warned that protests that stray from lawful conduct can lead to violence and unrest.
Otiotio stated that the APC in Bayelsa, at all levels—from local wards to the state—has collectively decided to forgo involvement in the protest, prioritizing the interest of democracy and the nation.
“I urge all our members to organize a solidarity rally in support of the government and President Tinubu’s policies. This is the course of action we intend to pursue,” he declared.
Furthermore, he disclosed that the party has submitted requests to the Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Joint Task Force (JTF) for authorization to hold a rally in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiatives.
