By Emmanuel Aziken, Political Editor
Bayelsa State Government, Monday, flayed the attack on a circulation van belonging to The Nation newspaper, describing the motive of the arsonists as another dimension to orchestrate political attacks aimed at derailing Governor Timipre Sylva’s re-election.

Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mr. Nathan Egba, in a statement, said the attack was aimed at creating a feeling of insecurity in the state that would undermine Sylva’s prospects in the forthcoming election.

He said: “Bayelsa State government wishes to condemn in very strong terms, the attack this morning of a circulation van belonging to The Nation newspaper by some unidentified persons around Mbriama who accused the paper of supporting Sylva.

“This no doubt is a new and dangerous dimension on the part of those who are bent on taking power from Governor Sylva by whatever means.

“Their desperation has moved beyond blackmail and rumour mongering to introduction of violence. This is a dangerous trend that will only bring misery to our people and create an air of insecurity and fear in our hitherto peaceful State.

“Governor Sylva is aware of the plans by some opponents to make the state appear lawless to give the impression of lack of effective governance.”