A supporter of Senator Henry Seriake Dickson has dismissed claims circulating in the public space that the former governor described Bayelsans as “animals,” saying the allegation is a misrepresentation of his remarks and lacks factual basis.
The clarification was made in response to commentary attributed to Hon. Israel Sunny-Igoli, which suggested that Senator Dickson made disparaging comments about the people of Bayelsa State. According to the supporter, Comr Gboluseri Timipre Samuel, no such statement was made against Bayelsans as a collective group.
He stated that at no point did Senator Dickson insult the people of Bayelsa or refer to them in a derogatory manner. He explained that the comments in question were directed at the conduct of certain politicians and not the general population.
Samuel noted that the distinction between criticizing political behavior and attacking an entire people was clear and unambiguous in the original context. He added that available video recordings and full transcripts of the press briefing support this position and clearly reflect what the senator said.
He emphasized that the controversy surrounding the remarks appears to stem from selective interpretation and the removal of statements from their broader context. According to him, such practices only serve to misinform the public and heighten political tension unnecessarily.
The supporter stressed that public discourse should be guided by accuracy, fairness, and a commitment to truth. He warned that deliberate misrepresentation of statements does not contribute to meaningful engagement or democratic debate.
Beyond addressing the immediate controversy, Samuel said it was important to consider Senator Dickson’s public service record when assessing his character and commitment to Bayelsa State. He pointed out that Dickson served as governor from 2012 to 2020, a period he described as critical in the state’s development.
During his time in office, Senator Dickson implemented the Restoration Agenda, which focused on infrastructure development and human capital growth. According to the supporter, this agenda was pursued at a time when Bayelsa was still grappling with structural and environmental challenges as a young state.
He highlighted several infrastructure projects executed during the period, including the expansion and dualization of major roads in and around Yenagoa. These projects, he said, improved mobility, eased traffic movement, and enhanced urban connectivity within the state capital.
Samuel also referenced the construction of a modern State Secretariat, which he said improved administrative efficiency by centralizing government operations. He noted that this project strengthened institutional coordination across ministries and agencies.
In the education and health sectors, he pointed to the establishment of the Bayelsa Medical University, which he said boosted healthcare education and capacity in the state. He also mentioned the development of tertiary institutions such as the University of Africa in Toru Orua.
Other projects cited included the construction of expansive road networks and bridges across different parts of the state. The Bayelsa International Airport was also completed during the period, providing the state with improved air access and reducing its isolation.
Urban development initiatives such as housing projects, recreational facilities including the golf course in Yenagoa, and aquaculture programs were also highlighted. According to the supporter, these initiatives were aimed at improving living standards and diversifying the local economy.
He added that the Dickson administration invested in strengthening the state’s security architecture to improve safety across communities. He said these combined efforts contributed to transforming Yenagoa into a more structured and accessible city.
Samuel argued that Bayelsa’s unique geographical and environmental realities required bold and forward-looking leadership. He said Senator Dickson demonstrated these qualities throughout his tenure as governor.
In addressing the current debate, he called on stakeholders to prioritize responsible discourse, especially in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly. He said criticism of public officials should be constructive and supported by verifiable facts.
Samuel maintained that Senator Henry Seriake Dickson remains committed to peace, development, and the collective progress of Bayelsa State. He urged the public to rely on facts rather than fabrications and to uphold a standard of discourse that promotes unity rather than division.
