By Ndudirim Sylvia Iloka
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and House of Representatives aspirant from Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, Chief Timipa Tiwei Oruimighe, has expressed confidence that the party will emerge victorious in the state despite recent political realignments and defections.
Speaking during an interview while submitting his nomination form, Oruimighe described himself as a grassroots politician with years of public service experience across different levels of government and strong loyalty to the APC.
He said if the APC family chooses to make decisions based on popularity, acceptability and support from the grassroots, he remains confident in his own capacity, insisting that he is not deterred because he possesses what it takes. He added that a search of his name would reveal the different names people call him in Bayelsa, which he attributed to the various offices he has held and his public engagements over the years.
Oruimighe recalled his involvement in the early days of the APC in Bayelsa State, noting that he remained committed to the party even during periods when the Peoples Democratic Party dominated the political landscape under former President Goodluck Jonathan and former Governor Seriake Dickson. He said standing with the APC during those difficult times reflected his character and political consistency.
While acknowledging Dickson’s influence in Bayelsa politics, he maintained that the APC remains focused and prepared for future elections in the state. He dismissed concerns over defections to other political parties, insisting that the APC still has the structure and determination needed to succeed. He said movements to new parties do not unsettle the party, stressing that what matters is preparation, hard work and unity.
He noted that Bayelsa already has an APC governor and expressed confidence that with collective effort the party will achieve victory in future contests. Oruimighe further emphasized grassroots mobilisation, saying his political record will continue to speak for him as the election approaches.
