Bayelsa: I Have No Alliance With Diri, My Allegiance Is With APC – Lokpobiri

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri has denied reports claiming that he formed an alliance with the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri.

In a statement on Monday, the minister expressed his commitment to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He insisted that the allegations are baseless and an attempt to tarnish his image.

Lokpobiri’s Special Adviser on Media and Communication, Nneamaka Okafor said his principal’s accusers were trying to ruin Lokpobiri’s reputation as a “staunch supporter” of the APC candidate in the November 11 governorship election, Timipre Sylva.

The statement reads in part, “These baseless allegations suggest that Senator Lokpobiri and Chief David Lyon have formed an alliance with the PDP Governor Douye Diri. We categorically state that these allegations lack credibility and are merely propaganda,” it read in part.

“Senator Lokpobiri’s dedication to the APC’s principles and values is unquestionable, and he remains steadfast in his commitment to the party’s success in Bayelsa State.”

“Senator Lokpobiri has consistently championed unity and cohesion within the State chapter of the APC and has been at the forefront of promoting the party’s agenda in Bayelsa State. Any insinuations to the contray are unfounded and untrue.

“These false allegations against Senator Lokpobiri are the work of individuals and groups who do not have Bayelsa State’s best interests at heart. They are threatened by the strong and cordial relationship that exists between Senator Lokpobiri and his boss President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), a relationship aimed at bringing progress and development to the people of the state.”