Former Bayelsa State governor, Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, returned to the state on October 30, but his homecoming rally ended in disappointment. Dickson expressed his discontent with the state's strategic alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by Governor Douye Diri. He failed to inform the crowd that the decision was made after consultations with stakeholders, leaders, and loyalists across the state, including himself.
Governor Diri's decision to align with the APC was made in the best interest of the state, and it was not a personal move against Dickson. Diri has always prioritized unity, peace, and inclusive governance in the state, having been part of the founding fathers of Bayelsa State in its creation struggle. Dickson's reaction suggests discomfort with the new political landscape.
During his eight-year tenure as governor, Dickson's politics relied heavily on brute strength and intimidation. Recently, an audio conversation between Dickson and a former commissioner went viral, where he described Yenagoa as a "forest capital." Bayelsans are questioning what he achieved during his eight years in office to change the state's condition.
Dickson's fragile ego has been further battered due to his squandered political capital and unimpressive record in office. He would do well to remember that those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. Dickson left the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to form the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), which is an example of hypocrisy.
Despite advocating for equity, Dickson has insisted on retaining the Bayelsa West Senatorial District seat, which should ideally go to Ekeremor local government area. His actions contradict his words, and Bayelsans are watching him spiral down the political pedestal that once elevated him. Diri, on the other hand, has focused on governance, unity, and development.
Governor Diri's record shows a commitment to completing abandoned projects and initiating new ones. Some of his notable achievements include the 42km Sagbama-Ekeremor Road, the Yenagoa-Oporoma-Ukubie Road, and the Nembe-Brass Road. He has also ensured 24-hour power supply and constructed several internal roads in Yenagoa.
The difference between Diri's and Dickson's approaches to governance is clear. While Diri prioritizes development and prudence, Dickson's approach is characterized by noise and showmanship. Bayelsa State has moved on, and it is time for Dickson to do the same.
Key points
- Dickson's homecoming rally ended in disappointment due to his reaction to the state's alignment with the APC.
- Governor Diri's decision to align with the APC was made in the best interest of the state, after consultations with stakeholders.
- The records of Diri and Dickson's governance styles are being compared, with Diri's focused on development and prudence.
