Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has announced plans to transform Yenagoa, the state capital, into a modern city through his administration’s urban renewal programme. According to Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Diri made this statement during the state executive council meeting in Government House, Yenagoa, on Wednesday.

Diri emphasized that centralised motor parks, like the new state-owned transport terminal at Igbogene, are features of modern cities. He warned against touting around the terminal, stressing that all travellers must go into the terminal for booking and boarding of vehicles. The governor also noted that the relocation would curb crime, as passengers entering the state would now be monitored.

Diri expressed his satisfaction with the new terminal, saying it is a testament to what modern societies strive for. He noted that critics of his administration are unaware of what a modern society looks like, and that Bayelsans are pleased with the progress made so far. Diri’s ultimate goal is to bring Yenagoa to a better place and make it a modern city.

In the statement by the Spokesperson, the governor also commended the security agencies for their collaborative efforts during the Yuletide period, which ensured a peaceful and crime-free festive season. He praised dancehall music star Timaya for his annual Timaya Day concert, which showcased great tourism potential for the state. Diri attended the concert and observed that the event attracted a huge crowd of mostly youths, with no incidents of crime reported.

Alabrah noted that Diri thanked the leadership of the Agbere community in Sagbama Local Government Area for maintaining peace after a recent ugly incident, and assured that ongoing investigations would uncover those responsible for the murder of a chief in the community.