In a show of solidarity, prominent Ijaw leaders, including the Bayelsa Elders Council, voiced their support for Governor Douye Diri’s second term bid during an interactive session organized by the socio-political group, Friends of Senator Douye Diri (FSDD). The event took place at the DSP Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall in Yenagoa on Monday night.
Chief Joshua Fumudoh, the pioneer elected president of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), commended Diri as a product of the Ijaw struggle, emphasizing his commitment to the development and transformation of the only homogeneous Ijaw state. Fumudoh highlighted the difference between those driven by personal gains and those dedicated to the Ijaw cause, noting the positive shift in politics within the state.
Dr. Ethel Diete-Spiff, a former first lady of the old Rivers State, praised Governor Diri for groundbreaking projects, particularly the Nembe-Brass road. She urged him to continue these efforts, emphasizing the transformative impact on the state.
Prof. Ayebaemi Spiff, a member of the Bayelsa State Creation/Founding Fathers Forum, acknowledged the governor’s developmental strides and offered her blessings. She specifically expressed a desire to drive on the completed Nembe-Brass road.
Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), the leader of the Bayelsa Elders Council, described the upcoming November 11 election as symbolic, drawing parallels to the armistice day in 1918. He expressed confidence in victory, highlighting the support from founding fathers and past leaders of the Ijaw National Congress.
Governor Diri, in response, thanked the Ijaw leaders for their endorsement, acknowledging their pivotal role in his achievements. He emphasized the importance of their counsel, stating that it has shaped his decisions for the benefit of the people. Diri expressed gratitude to FSDD, considering them the fathers, mothers, leaders, and elders of the Ijaw nation.
The governor, echoing the sentiments of the speakers, emphasized the need to maintain a winning team for the continued progress of the state. He reiterated his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy and securing another term to further serve the people.
Prince Bodi Arerebo, president of Friends of Senator Douye Diri, outlined the group’s mission to promote the goals of the Diri administration and the Ijaw nation. He cited relative peace, political tolerance, passionate development, and the absence of political thuggery and violence as key reasons for endorsing Governor Diri for a second term.
