Bayelsa state Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has urged politicians and their supporters to conduct issues-based campaigns, rather than resorting to insults and character assassination. He emphasized that political differences should not destroy the bonds that exist among the people. Governor Diri made this statement while presiding over the 198th session of the meeting in the Executive Council Chambers in Government House, Yenagoa.
Governor Diri stressed that politics will come and go, but the people will still remain brothers and sisters. He noted that their communities will not be taken away because of political affiliations. The governor's statement is a call for civil campaigns, focusing on records, policies, and what politicians intend to achieve for the people.
The state executive council observed a minute silence in honour of four Bayelsans who died in the ill-fated Nigeria Air Force (NAF) plane that crashed in Ondo State. The NAF reported that 25 of its personnel were lost in the tragic incident, including the four from Bayelsa. The victims were identified as Flight Lieutenant Tarila Lazarus, Sergeant Izibenikien Samuel, Sergeant Ebimobowei Charles Alafuka, and Godstime Tarabina.
Governor Diri expressed deep sympathy for the families of the victims and the people of Bayelsa, who have been affected by the tragedy. He had earlier issued a condolence message to President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of the Air Staff, and the families of the victims. As directed by the President, flags in the state are flying at half-mast.
The state government will work with relevant authorities to alleviate the pain of the victims' families. Governor Diri appreciated Bayelsans for their massive participation in activities marking the state's 30th anniversary. The turnout demonstrated the people's love for the state and their willingness to identify with its development.
The anniversary was not a political party event, but an opportunity for Bayelsans to reflect on the state's journey, assess its present position, and project its future. Governor Diri thanked the committee led by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, government officials, citizens, diplomats, federal agencies, and other guests who contributed to the success of the celebrations.
Governor Diri announced plans to prepare a short and long-term development plan for the state before the end of his tenure. The plan will provide a framework to guide future administrations and ensure continuity in the development of the state. He emphasized that development should not be tied to one administration, but approached as a collective responsibility requiring long-term planning.
Key points
- Governor Diri urges politicians to conduct issues-based campaigns.
- The state government will support the families of the victims of the NAF plane crash.
- Bayelsa state is preparing a long-term development plan to guide future administrations.
