Bayelsa State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in the November 11 gubernatorial election, Douye Diri, has issued a stern warning that any traditional ruler found supporting election violence in their domain will face dethronement under his administration. The governor conveyed this message during a visit to the palace of the Okpo XXI of Okpoama Kingdom, King Ebitimi Banigo, in Brass Local Government Area. Diri emphasized the importance of allowing political parties and their supporters to campaign peacefully, without any form of harassment or intimidation.
Expressing gratitude for the support from the Okpoama monarch, the council of chiefs, and other stakeholders, Diri urged them to maintain the existing peace in the state before, during, and after the election. He emphasized his government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and stated that any traditional ruler involved in disrupting the peace during the election would face consequences, including possible dethronement.
Additionally, Diri clarified that the construction of the Nembe-Brass road, passing through the former governor Timipre Sylva’s community, was not influenced by political motives. He explained that the decision to undertake the project, located in the Bayelsa East Senatorial District, aimed to provide access to the Atlantic Ocean, allowing the state to harness its abundant natural resources.
