By Emem Idio

YENAGOA—Bayelsa chapter of  All Progressives Congress, APC, has said that the reported defection of its former state chairman, Chief Tiwei  Orunimighe, was of no effect as he was no longer a member of the party, stressing that he was expelled last year.

APC

A statement by its state Publicity Secretary, Mr Doifie Buokoribo, said  Orunimighe ceased to be a member of APC following his expulsion in August last year.

According to  Buokoribo, Orunimighe has the right to join any party of his choice, but should not use APC as leverage in negotiations with his new party.

He said: “Orunimighe and his group were expelled from APC for antiparty activities since August last year by the party’s National Working Committee, NWC.”

He  advised members of the public to disregard the defection claim by people who want to join a party of their choice, maintaining that the APC in Bayelsa State remains “united, strong, and focused.”