The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has issued a strong warning to traditional rulers in the state. He stated that any monarch who allows violence during the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 11 will be removed from their position.
During a visit to the palace of the Okpo XXI of Okpoama Kingdom, King Ebitimi Banigo, in Brass Local Government Area, Governor Diri delivered this warning. He emphasized that his administration will not tolerate electoral violence and will uphold democratic principles.
Governor Diri expressed his gratitude to the Okpoama monarch, the council of chiefs, and other stakeholders for their support and warm welcome. He urged them to maintain peace in the state before, during, and after the election. All political parties and their supporters should be allowed to campaign without any form of harassment or violence.
In another development, Governor Diri received a large number of defectors from the Seibarugu Political Dynasty of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state. Led by Chief Werinipre Seibarugu, a former Acting Governor and Speaker of the House of Assembly, the influential group praised the governor’s peaceful and development-oriented leadership style.
After assessing Governor Diri’s performance over the past four years, including the maintenance of peace and security and ongoing developmental projects, the Seibarugu Dynasty decided to join forces with him to move Bayelsa forward. They expressed their unwavering commitment to supporting the governor’s re-election in 2023.
The state PDP chairman, Mr. Solomon Agwana, welcomed the group and assured them that they will not face discrimination within the party. Governor Diri also expressed his appreciation for Chief Seibarugu’s integrity and described the APC as a deceitful party that has not contributed positively to the state’s development.
