Rivers State Community in Bayelsa Reaffirms Support for Governor Diri’s Administration

The Rivers State community residing in Bayelsa State has reiterated its support for the Prosperity Administration led by Governor Douye Diri, emphasizing continued solidarity and cautioning against any attempts to sow discord within the state.

This declaration was made during a solidarity visit to the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Education, Hon. Dr. Gentle E. Emelah, on Friday. The meeting took place at the “Yes Diri” Secretariat in Yenagoa, the state capital.

Leading the delegation, Chief Barisuka Prince, President of the Rivers State Community in Bayelsa, praised Governor Diri’s leadership style. He lauded the governor’s inclusive governance, which he described as unprecedented, especially in ensuring that non-indigenes are carried along in the state’s affairs.

Chief Barisuka expressed appreciation for Governor Diri’s peaceful approach to governance and his inclusive policies, which he noted were instrumental to the governor’s re-election for a second term in office.

He also commended Dr. Gentle Emelah for his unwavering commitment to actualizing the administration’s vision in the education sector. According to him, Dr. Emelah’s efforts have not only improved the sector but have also contributed to the growth and acceptance of the “Yes Diri” movement, which has been a strong support base for the administration.

The Secretary of the South-South Council of Chiefs under the Yes Diri Organization, Bishop Chief Emma Ubaka, also spoke during the visit. He reaffirmed the unflinching support of Rivers State indigenes living in Bayelsa for Governor Diri and the current administration.

Chief Ubaka described Governor Diri as a unifying figure and appreciated the peace and political stability that has characterized his tenure. He stated that Rivers people residing in Bayelsa would never be part of any movement that seeks to disrupt the peace in the state.

He issued a stern warning to individuals or groups attempting to instigate disunity in Bayelsa State, urging them to desist. He assured the Commissioner that the Rivers State Community in Bayelsa had unanimously resolved to remain loyal to the current government and continue to work towards maintaining unity and peace in the state.

In his response, Dr. Gentle E. Emelah expressed deep appreciation for the show of solidarity and reaffirmed the historical and cultural ties between Rivers and Bayelsa States. He recalled his own personal experience during his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) days, where he was originally deployed as a native of Rivers State but became recognized as a Bayelsan following the creation of Bayelsa State. He also noted with pride that he became the first Bayelsan to win the NYSC National Service Award during the regime of late General Sani Abacha.

Dr. Emelah assured the visiting delegation that Governor Diri’s administration remains committed to inclusiveness, pointing out that non-indigenes are well represented in the state government. He cited the appointments of two Commissioners who are non-natives, as well as several other positions such as Technical Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, and Special Assistants.

He urged the Rivers State Community to continue to promote peace and work in harmony with the administration to ensure Bayelsa remains hospitable and peaceful for everyone. He emphasized that the state is open to all Nigerians who wish to live and earn a legitimate livelihood.

The event also featured the presentation of an award of excellence to Dr. Emelah in recognition of his contributions to the education sector and his efforts in strengthening ties between communities in the state. Goodwill messages were shared by various attendees who expressed their appreciation for the state government’s inclusive policies.

Among those who attended the event were Hon. Ozims F. Ozims and Dr. Dokubo Felix, both Senior Special Assistants to the Governor on General Duties. Also present were Mr. Godswill Igbanibor, Secretary of the Organization, Pastor Mrs. Bridget Pepple, Women Leader, Evangelist Michael Isaac, Youth Leader, and others.

Dr. Emelah was joined by Hon. Jerusalem Adikabue, who was also part of the meeting.

The gathering served as a significant reaffirmation of the strong relationship between indigenes and non-indigenes in Bayelsa and highlighted the efforts of the current administration in fostering unity and inclusion across communities.