Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has expressed concern over the three-month-long power outage in the state, caused by the vandalism of 13 power towers in Bayelsa and neighboring Rivers State.
Speaking on Thursday at the 20th All Nigeria Editors Conference in Yenagoa, Diri highlighted that while Bayelsa has been without electricity for months, similar issues in northern regions have already been resolved. He assured that the state government is collaborating with the Transmission Company of Nigeria to restore power.
Additionally, Diri mentioned that his administration is considering an independent power project, as Bayelsa had inherited two now-obsolete gas turbines from the former Rivers State, capable of generating 20 megawatts in the past.
Diri also spoke on the ASSURED agenda of his government, anchored on the seven pillars of “agricultural revolution and blue economy, sports and youth development, security and peace, urban renewal and rural development, robust healthcare delivery, energy generation and economic growth, and diversifying education towards innovation and technology with guaranteed quality delivery.”
On the role of the media, he said, “The significance of the media in democratic governance has been recognised since the 17th century.
“As the fourth pillar of democracy, the press educates, informs, and entertains, shaping public agenda and debate. Democracy relies heavily on the press to thrive.
“As ethnic nationalities and diverse interests vie for attention, your work serves as a beacon of hope, promoting understanding and unity.
“In these turbulent times around our nation and the world at large, your role as guardians of truth is more critical than ever.
“Integrity remains the cornerstone of your profession, building trust with the public and fortifying the foundations of a healthy democracy.”
On the theme of the conference, “Economic Growth and Development Strategies in Resource-Rich Country,” Diri said it is “both relevant and timely.
“We find ourselves at a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development. Our nation brims with abundant resources, yet poverty and underdevelopment persist across countless communities; a striking paradox.
“For long we have been ignored, our stories dismissed, and our rights trampled.
“Yet we have decided not to be silenced or erased. ‘The time is always right to do what is right,’ said Martin Luther King Jr.”
He said, “Two recent events have strengthened my resolve to drive a thoughtful and intentional dialogue about responsible resource management in our country.
“It was my pleasure to join the University of Nigeria community in Nsukka for their 64th Founder’s Day, where I presented a lecture focusing on the pivotal issues of structural inequality and imbalance within Nigeria’s federal structure.
“We must, for instance, rethink the outdated idea that states have rights to surface land, while the Federal Government monopolises valuable underground resources.
“I highlighted key issues, including fiscal autonomy and the restricted authority of state governors, who are chief security officers in name only, as actual control rests elsewhere.
“I will refrain from delving deeper into this topic here, as copies of my lecture are available to the press.
“The second is the submission of the Bayelsa State Oil and Environmental Commission’s report to the State Executive Council, marking a significant milestone.
“This comprehensive report sheds light on the devastating impact of oil and gas pollution in Bayelsa State, highlighting the urgent need for remedial action and sustainable solutions.”
Speaking on the report, he said “It paints a devastating picture of environmental destruction, impunity, and severe harm to our lands, waters, and community health.
“Alarmingly, it reveals that Bayelsa bears the brunt of 25 per cent of Nigeria’s oil and gas pollution, yet receives insufficient compensation for the resulting environmental degradation and health crises.
“The report recommends an urgent need for reparation, remedial action, and sustainable solutions to address the catastrophic impact of this pollution on our ecosystem and people.
“While some focus on the 13 per cent derivation funds allocated to oil-producing states, it’s crucial to acknowledge the far more devastating 83 per cent deprivation that perpetuates inequity and injustice. This stark disparity underscores the need for comprehensive reform.”
He added, “This Tuesday, I had the privilege of leading a high-powered delegation of stakeholders from the state to discuss these and other concerning issues with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the Villa.
“I am deeply gratified by his courtesy, understanding, and support of the many issues that agitate our people.
“I’m bringing this crucial sequence of events to your attention because I believe we share a common conviction, echoed in Martin Luther King Jr.’s powerful words, ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.’
“As editors and chief communicators in our society, you have the power to shine a light on these injustices.
“Therefore, we implore you as editors and influential voices, to advocate for policies that prioritise sustainable development and empower local communities.
“The discussions are not just abstract concepts; they directly affect people’s lives, particularly those suffering from resource exploitation, environmental harm, and unequal economic access.
“This is my first major interface with the leadership of the press since my re-election as governor. You may recall that during our first term, we proudly adopted the moniker ‘Prosperity Government.’ This designation was not merely a title; it is a commitment to our electoral promise to the people of Bayelsa State.”
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