Political Showdown: Governor Diri Moves To Block Pro-Wike Mega Rally Amid Security Concerns

Expressing concern over potential unrest, Diri cautioned that such gatherings could destabilize Bayelsa, particularly amid the escalating political tensions in neighboring Rivers State. He emphasized that the state government would not tolerate any activities that could threaten peace.

During separate meetings with the Bayelsa Elders Council and the State Security Council’s 37th session in Yenagoa, the governor urged security agencies, elders, youths, and traditional rulers to remain vigilant.

“This is not the time for actions that could incite violence. We will not allow any attempt to disrupt the peace of our state. The security situation is delicate, and I call on security commanders, parents, and traditional rulers to remain watchful,” Diri stated.

He warned that hosting such a rally could heighten ethnic tensions in Bayelsa, especially given the ongoing crisis in Rivers State. Diri also accused FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of attempting to incite instability in states governed by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

“Any attempt to import the Rivers State crisis into Bayelsa will be met with resistance. Security agencies must remain alert, and parents and traditional rulers must prevent their wards from being used as political tools for disruption,” he added.

Reaffirming the resilience of the Ijaw people, Diri insisted that Bayelsa, as the heartland of Ijaw culture, would not tolerate any attempts by external forces to stir up trouble. He made it clear that Bayelsa would not become entangled in the political turmoil affecting its neighboring state.

“The political crisis in our sister state is threatening us, but we will not allow it to spill over into Bayelsa,” Diri asserted.

The governor also revealed that a suspended former PDP member was behind efforts to establish a rival PDP structure in Bayelsa, further complicating the state’s political stability.

“This is not Rivers State. Bayelsa is the cradle of the Ijaw people. Our peaceful nature should not be mistaken for weakness. We stand for truth and justice at all times,” Diri declared.

Additionally, he stressed that no public facility in Bayelsa could be used for political events without official approval from the state government.

Governor Diri urged Bayelsans to uphold the prevailing peace in the state to ensure continued development and stability.