Elizabeth Vincent, Yenagoa
Governor Douye Diri has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthen the capacity of security agencies operating across Bayelsa State.
Speaking on tuesday at government house, Yenagoa, after receiving senior security chiefs—including the new Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation Delta Safe (OPDS), Rear Admiral N. M. Madugu; the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, Rear Admiral Ahmed Gaya; and the Assistant Inspector‑General of Police for Zone 16, AIG Tolani Alausa—Senator Diri assured them of continued logistical support.
“We are working round the clock with our security partners so that Bayelsans can sleep with both eyes closed and our critical assets—on land and water—remain protected,” the governor said.
Diri pledged to provide additional patrol vehicles, boats and other essential resources. He reminded the OPDS Commander that safeguarding oil and gas infrastructure benefits not only the federal government but also the state and host communities, noting that Bayelsa’s collaboration with the task force has helped reduce crime markedly.
Responding to a request from Rear Admiral Gaya, the governor announced that he has signed the Certificate of Occupancy for land allocated to the Nigerian Navy at New Yenagoa City and has approved the establishment of a secondary school in Toru‑Ebeni, Sagbama LGA. The state now awaits the Navy’s development of the site.
While pledging cooperation with the police, Diri urged AIG Tolani to act “repentantly and professionally,” referencing the officer’s contentious role during the 2023 governorship election. “Let bygones be bygones,” he said. “Your zone covers Bayelsa and Rivers; let the interests of both states guide you.”
Addressing leadership disputes, the governor dissolved the youth association in Famgbe community, Yenagoa LGA, and directed the Commissioner for Youth Development, in concert with the Commissioner of Police, to organize fresh elections. He warned that traditional rulers who fail to curb unrest in their domains would face sanctions.
“Any community Ogboinbiri included that continues to foment trouble will see both its traditional rulers and youth bodies held to account,” Diri cautioned.
