The Bayelsa State government has concluded plans to prosecute Timipre Sylva, a one-time governor of the state who doubled as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), following the death of George Sibo, a PDP member and election agent.
According to a report by Punch Online, Sibo was killed at the INEC Collation Centre in Brass during the November 2023 governorship election.
Governor Douye Diri announced during Sibo’s burial in Twon-Brass that the state Attorney-General has been directed to take legal action against Sylva.
Diri, expressing his sorrow over the incident, called the deceased a hero of democracy and assured that those responsible would be held accountable.
Governor Diri questioned Sylva’s presence at the collation centre with a large crowd the day after the election, which led to the fatal incident.
He said, “There are a lot of questions to answer. What was the candidate of the APC, Timipre Sylva, doing at the collation centre in Twon-Brass a day after the election? Why did he go there with the large crowd that led to the killing of this young man?”
He made it clear that as the chief security officer, he refrained from using his powers against the opposition to avoid further violence.
He added, “I am pained and that was why I directed that autopsy be carried out, which has been done. I have further directed the Attorney-General to institute a case against Timipre Sylva and all those who invaded the collation centre that led to the killing of George Sibo.”
Diri also announced immediate employment for Sibo’s two wives in the state civil service to support their families.
The Brass PDP Caucus Chairman, Chief Sam Ateke, praised the governor for seeking justice and pledged the community’s cooperation in the legal process.
Peoplesmind