Diri Marks Six Years In Office With Thanksgiving Service

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, on Saturday marked the sixth anniversary of his administration with a thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre, Igbogene.

Naija News reports that the solemn ceremony paid tribute to the late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away during the administration.

At the service, Governor Diri expressed gratitude to the people of Bayelsa and other arms of government for their support over the years.

Reading from Psalm 23:1–6, he attributed the achievements of his administration to unity, tolerance and collective effort, urging citizens to continue working together for the development of the state.

He highlighted ongoing projects aimed at opening up hinterlands and improving infrastructure.

“God had a plan for bringing me to the APC from the PDP. Let us keep uniting and speak with one voice, and we pray that God will bring another God-fearing leader who will perform better than me,” Diri said.

In his goodwill message, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, described Diri’s emergence as a divine intervention.

Referring to him as the “Miracle Governor,” Lokpobiri stressed that no individual could claim credit for his rise to power.

“Today, under your leadership, all of us are gathered here. That is why I am saying in church that no matter what you do, it is God that gives power to whoever He wants. Only God made you governor,” he said.

The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, commended Diri for fostering peace in the state, noting that it had enabled development initiatives across Bayelsa.

Similarly, Dr Mitema Obordor, representing Ogbia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, described the governor’s six years in office as visionary and impactful.

Former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah, praised Diri for promoting peace and stability, as well as advancing infrastructural projects such as the Nembe-Brass road, which he said had reduced piracy and strengthened unity in the area.

Clergy Prays For Continued Guidance

Delivering the sermon, the Lead Pastor of The Refined People’s Assembly, Daddy-Ken Bitere, focused on God’s faithfulness, noting that leaders are instruments used to fulfil divine promises.

He prayed for continued wisdom and divine direction for the governor.

Among those present at the Thanksgiving service were former First Lady Patience Jonathan; the governor’s wives, Dr Gloria Diri and Justice Patience Diri; senators and members of the National Assembly from Bayelsa; state lawmakers; the Chief Judge; and traditional rulers.