The immediate past Minister of State for Agriculture and Rural Development, Heineken Lokpobiri, has indicated his intention to contest under the All Progressive Congress (APC) platform for the November 16 governorship election in Bayelsa.
Mr Lokpobiri announced his decision on Saturday following consultation with the APC State leaders at the Yenagoa Party Secretariat.
Mr. Lokpobiri informed the heads of the party that he was willing to lead the APC to the “Creek Haven,” the seat of authority of Bayelsa State, so that he could build an economy beyond the state’s oil.
“I am here to formally inform my political family about my intention to contest the governorship of Bayelsa State on APC platform. I have the support base to win the election come Nov. 16, 2019.
“My plea to the leadership of our party is to ensure that the party remains united in order to form a formidable front to win this election.
“If party members work together, we will surely win the governorship election, come November.
“I am coming to give direction to Bayelsa State; develop the state and build the economy beyond oil,’’ he said.
APC Chairman Jothan Amos in Bayelsa said the APC state primary election for the candidate for governorship would be free and fair.
He encouraged all aspirants to conduct their consultations peacefully, without any type of violence.
Mr Lokpobiri, before his appointment as a minister, was a two-term senator. (NAN)
