The Bayelsa State Government has directed the suspension of a re-run election for the leadership of Ohaneze Ndigbo local chairman. 

Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo announced the decision during a meeting with Ohaneze leaders and stakeholders in Yenagoa on Friday.

He also dissolved the Electoral Committee responsible for the February 23 election, which ended in a stalemate, stating that the committee failed to meet expectations.

Warning against any attempt to proceed with the re-run scheduled for Saturday, Ewhrudjakpo disclosed that security agencies had been directed to arrest and prosecute anyone violating the government’s directive.

He emphasized that the government’s intervention aims to foster unity among the Igbos in Bayelsa and prevent any disruption of public peace.

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“We appreciate the contributions of the Igbo community to the development of Bayelsa. You are an important part of this state, and we will not allow an election to divide you,” he said.

To resolve the leadership dispute, the deputy governor set up a reconciliation committee tasked with addressing the issues and submitting recommendations within two weeks.

The two candidates vying for the presidency of Ohaneze Ndigbo in Bayelsa, Frank Odinekwe and Anthony Olikagwu, welcomed the government’s intervention and appealed for support in resolving the conflict.

Chairman of the Reconciliation Committee and Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Collins Cocodia, assured that the committee would work towards a lasting solution.

NAN