Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has declared that his administration will not permit the proposed pro-Wike rally scheduled to hold in Yenagoa, citing security concerns and the need to maintain regional peace.
The event was scheduled for the capital of Bayelsa State and was organized by an organization called The New Associate to express support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. Governor Diri, however, made it plain that the event would not be permitted to proceed during his remarks at the 158th State Executive Council meeting on Wednesday.
Diri emphasized that the peace and security of Bayelsa must not be jeopardized, particularly in view of the continuation of political tensions in neighboring Rivers State, while reaffirming his government’s commitment to protecting constitutional rights, including the right to peaceful assembly.
Our government does not violate the rule of law. Governor Diri declared, “We value and uphold the Federal Republic of Nigeria Constitution.”
But as this state’s chief security official, it is my responsibility to make sure that no outside force disturbs Bayelsa’s tranquility. Because Rivers and Bayelsa are sister states, the circumstances in one have an impact on the other.
The governor pointed out that Bayelsa might be impacted by the political climate in Rivers, which he termed as hostile.
He emphasized that it would be “unwise and counter-productive” to hold a protest connected to the political situation, particularly at a time when President Bola Tinubu had allegedly proclaimed a state of emergency in Rivers State.
“We are not yet in a political season, but some people want to hold a mega rally here,” Diri stated. “I must act in our state’s best interest, but I am not preventing anyone from exercising their fundamental rights.”
He issued a warning that under his supervision, no actions that could incite discontent or cause the state to become unstable would be allowed. Citing the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who formally notified the state government of her intended visit on Thursday in collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), he further underlined the importance of adhering to the correct processes at all public meetings.
Governor Diri praised the teamwork that went into the First Lady’s visit and asked Bayelsans to greet her with open arms.
In closing, he urged citizens to maintain harmony and peace, stating that his administration is still dedicated to maintaining law and order throughout the state.