TheCable

Timipre Sylva, the former governor of Bayelsa state, has emerged as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the December 5 governorship election in controversial circumstances.

He polled a total of 726 votes to beat other aspirants in the election which was almost marred by violence.

Supporters of the different candidates engaged in free-for-all in the exercise which took place at the Samson Siasia sports complex in Yenagoa, capital of the state.

Some of the aspirants including Timi Alaibe had called for a postponement of the exercise, citing the tense atmosphere.

“The rancorous accreditation process leading to the primaries was fraught with irregularities, violence, intimidation and complete disrespect for aspirants, agents and party officials,” he said.

“I think something is missing somewhere and we need to get it right.”

Adams Oshiomhole, governor of Edo state and chairman of the electoral committee, held a meeting with all the aspirants and delegates.

Security personnel had to smuggle Oshiomhole out of the venue of the election before the exercise commenced but some of the aspirants pulled out of the exercise.

In the end, Sylva was announced the winner but the national leadership of the party has declared its stance on the whole process.