Former Bayelsa State Governor and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of abandoning the ideals upon which it was founded.
Sylva announced his resignation in a letter dated August 31, 2026, addressed to the APC Chairman of Ward 4 in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The former governor, who described himself as a founding member of the APC, said his decision followed consultations with his family, associates, colleagues and supporters.
“Having consulted widely with my family, associates, colleagues and sympathisers, I wish to formally tender my resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC), with immediate effect,” Sylva stated.
He recalled his role in the formation and development of the party, saying he had contributed to building the APC from its foundation.
However, Sylva expressed disappointment with the direction of the party, alleging that its current approach to politics had eroded basic standards of decency and morality.
The resignation comes amid heightened political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, with several political actors and groups repositioning ahead of the polls.
Sylva’s departure is expected to generate reactions within the APC, particularly in Bayelsa State, where he remains a prominent political figure.
The former minister was also declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in November 2025 over allegations relating to the alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of NCDMB funds valued at $14,859,257 for a refinery project involving Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited.