Bayelsa Politics: Creek Communities Reject Removal of Sagbama LGA Chair Alice Tangi Allen
Tensions are rising in Bayelsa State as community leaders and stakeholders from 15 Creek communities in Sagbama Constituency Two voice strong opposition to the recent removal of the Sagbama Local Government Area Chairman, Alice Tangi Allen.
In a jointly signed communiqué, community representatives declared the removal unconstitutional, politically motivated, and a threat to local democratic norms.
Creek Communities Call for Justice and Due Process
The communiqué was signed by prominent local leaders, including:
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High Chief Alade Agua
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Godsave Aladei
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Dr. Dio Wenaoere
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Richard Perekeme
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Comd. Desire Ekade
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Koribokiri Yahya James
The stakeholders emphasized that the governance of Sagbama LGA directly impacts the peace, unity, and welfare of the Creek axis. They warned against ignoring legal procedures and called for immediate adherence to the rule of law.
Allegations of Political Marginalization
According to community leaders, Tangi Allen’s removal is part of a recurring pattern. They pointed out that Sagbama LGA comprises three distinct constituencies, with a long-standing tradition of rotating key political positions—including the LGA chairmanship—among them.
The leaders cited past instances involving political figures such as Banabas Edure and Barrister Columbus, arguing that repeated disruptions targeting representatives from the Creek area have fueled a growing sense of political marginalization.
Political Loyalty and the Role of Key Figures
The communiqué raised critical questions about the real motives behind the decision, asking whether Tangi Allen was targeted for refusing to align with specific political interests.
Key issues raised by the stakeholders include:
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Party Defection Pressures: Questions over whether her refusal to join the ruling political platform led to her removal.
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Association with Senator Dickson: Concerns regarding whether her political ties to former Governor and current Senator representing Bayelsa Central, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, influenced the outcome.
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Role of the House of Assembly: Calls for clarity on whether the Bayelsa State House of Assembly acted within the bounds of the Bayelsa State Local Government Law, 2000.
Community leaders stressed that if any misconduct occurred, it must be addressed through proper judicial and legal channels rather than arbitrary executive or legislative action.
Key Demands Presented to the State Government
To restore stability and protect democratic institutions, the stakeholders issued the following key requests:
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Executive Review: A formal appeal to Governor Douye Diri to review the circumstances surrounding the removal and reinstate Alice Tangi Allen pending judicial determination.
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Protection from Victimization: An appeal to state leadership to prevent political differences from turning into targeted harassment against Senator Dickson or his supporters.
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Political Freedom: A call on state authorities and the Deputy Governor to foster unity rather than forcing local figures or voters into supporting specific parties or candidates.
Call for Peace Amid Rising Tensions
Despite their strong opposition, the Creek community leaders appealed directly to local youths and political supporters to remain calm, avoid violence, and respect public order. They reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing the matter strictly through constitutional and legal means.
Key Takeaways
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Who: 15 Creek communities in Sagbama Constituency Two, Bayelsa State.
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What: Rejection of Sagbama LGA Chairman Alice Tangi Allen’s removal.
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Why: Allegations of unconstitutional action, rotation breach, and political victimization.
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Next Steps: Demands for reinstatement by Governor Douye Diri and full judicial review under local government laws.
