Former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing the ruling party of abandoning the ideals on which it was founded.

Sylva announced his resignation in a letter dated Monday, August 31, 2026, addressed to the APC chairman of Ward 4 in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

In the letter, the former governor said he decided to leave the party after consulting with his family, associates, colleagues and sympathisers.

He wrote that his resignation from the APC was with immediate effect.

Sylva, who described himself as a founding member of the APC, recalled his role in building the party and said he had contributed to its development since its formation.

However, he said he could no longer remain in the party, citing concerns over the direction of the APC and the way its leadership conducts its affairs.

The former minister also criticised the party’s political approach, alleging that it had eroded basic standards of decency and morality.

His resignation comes amid controversies surrounding him. Sylva has been reportedly linked to an alleged coup plot against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The allegation has generated attention but does not amount to a conviction.

The former Bayelsa governor has also had legal troubles involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The EFCC declared Sylva wanted in November 2025 over allegations involving the alleged conspiracy and dishonest conversion of about $14.86 million in funds belonging to the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

The funds were reportedly connected to a refinery project involving Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited.

Despite the controversies, Sylva’s latest decision to quit the APC is expected to generate political reactions, particularly in Bayelsa State, where he remains a prominent political figure.

Big Question: Why Did Timipre Sylva Leave the APC?

The major question following Sylva’s resignation is what prompted him to leave the ruling party at this time and what his next political move will be.

His departure could also raise questions about the future of the APC in Bayelsa and its political calculations ahead of future elections.

For now, Sylva has not disclosed whether he plans to join another political party or pursue a new political platform.