By Anthonia Onwuka
Sunday Vanguard tried to get Governor Timipreye Sylva to grant an interview on the present stasis in the political events in his state but did not succeed.

Therefore, on a day like this, what we present are the thoughts of Governor Sylva regarding the political imbroglio that is threatening to consume the state. Some are thoughts of his spokes person.

On the attack on THE NATION’s vehicle in Bayelsa State

Commissioner’s Comment – November 1, 2011

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”.

Governor Timipre Sylva

Answering questions from journalists, he said, “My clearance is still subsisting”. October 31, 2011

Whenever my party calls, I will answer even if it is on a Sunday. It is the party’s prerogative to call me anytime. I have been cleared and the party just invited me to clarify some issues which I have clarified”.

I am not aware of any petition. But everybody has a right to complain about something. It is also my right to explain my position to the party and I believe that the party is satisfied.

Everything that has been written is a figment of some people’s imagination and I told the party so. I told them exactly how things are and the party believed me. I believe that the party will conduct a fair (contest).

On whether the removal of the acting Chairman, would affect his chances at the primaries

It doesn’t matter.

After submitting his expression of intent form, signifying his intention to contest the election – October 24, 2011

I went to Abuja where I continued with my consultations and I wish to announce to all Bayelsans that I have the blessing of President Jonathan. There is no cause for alarm as we are firmly in control.

On his final disqualification

The attention of H.E. Chief Timipre Sylva, Governor of Bayelsa State, has been drawn to a statement by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), disallowing him from participating in the Bayelsa State PDP gubernatorial primaries scheduled for Saturday, 19 November 2011”.

Governor Sylva considers it disturbing that his full membership of the PDP is being abridged. In particular, his fundamental right to vote and be voted for has been trampled upon by his own party, a party he has contributed so much in building. Consequently, Governor Sylva and his supporters are reviewing the NWC decision”.

Governor Sylva notes that the NWC decision does not annul his membership of the PDP. As Governor of Bayelsa State under the platform of the PDP, Sylva remains the leader of the party in the state. As a loyal party person, he will participate in all party activities.

Similarly, Governor Sylva wishes to bring to the attention of the public reports alleging that there are attempts to arrest him on trumped-up treasonable felony charges. The story is that there is a tape in which he threatened to kill President Goodluck Jonathan. This is completely false. At no time did Sylva threaten to kill President Jonathan. He has no reason whatsoever to wish the president or any other person dead.

Governor Sylva enjoins the people of Bayelsa State, especially his numerous supporters to remain calm, law-abiding and hopeful.

The people of Bayelsa State shall prevail.