2027: Seek Office Within the Law, Diri Urges Aspirants as Bayelsa Bags Multiple Awards

Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has called on politicians in the state to pursue their ambitions in line with existing laws as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor gave the advice on Wednesday during the weekly State Executive Council meeting at the Government House in Yenagoa, where he also urged aspirants to exercise restraint, stressing that politics should be driven by service rather than personal gain.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Diri assured that no aspirant would be disenfranchised but emphasised the need to respect zoning arrangements where applicable. He added that in line with the directive of the All Progressives Congress, direct primaries would be conducted in situations where consensus could not be reached.

“We are in the political season and I like the way it is going because nobody is forcing anyone,” the governor said.

“For some obvious reasons, such as zoning, we spoke to some people and advised that where you have, for instance, a House of Assembly member that has served just a term, he should be allowed to return except otherwise. If there is no consensus, the party has directed that we have direct primaries.

“I call on politicians to exercise restraint and pursue their ambitions based on existing rules and within the ambit of the law.”

At the meeting, the governor also received several awards presented by members of the State Executive Council in recognition of the administration’s performance across key sectors.

Commissioner for Health, Prof. Seiyefa Brisibe, presented an award of exceptional leadership and contribution to healthcare development from nurses across Commonwealth countries. He attributed the recognition to strides in the health sector, including the upgrade of the School of Nursing Sciences to a College of Nursing Sciences and the completion of a 250-capacity ICT centre at the College of Nursing and Midwifery in Tombia.

Brisibe also cited the recruitment of 200 nurses and midwives, as well as improved welfare and professional development initiatives, as part of the achievements that earned the state the recognition.

The governor was further honoured by the Federal Medical Centre Yenagoa for his contributions to healthcare development and public service.

Similarly, Commissioner for Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Faith Izibenua-Zibs, presented an “Appreciation of Service Award” from the Institute of Geosciences and Environmental Management, citing Diri’s role in establishing Nigeria’s first subnational Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.

Also, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), presented an Environmental Rights Governance Award from the Nigerian Bar Association Human Rights Institute in collaboration with “Call A Lawyer,” in recognition of the administration’s commitment to good governance and human rights.

Responding, Governor Diri dedicated the awards to the entire administration, noting that they reflected collective efforts in governance.

“As I always say, these are our awards. All of us have done very well. We can raise our heads high knowing that we are not violating human rights in Bayelsa,” he said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining investments in the health sector and advancing policies that align with the state’s economic strengths, particularly in the marine and blue economy.