Governor Diri Faces Fresh Backlash Over Alleged Bayelsa East Marginalisation
Governor Douye Diri’s administration is dealing with a new wave of criticism. A political pressure group known as the Bayelsa Rescue Mission (BRM) has strongly accused the state government of leaving out certain areas when giving out top government jobs and political roles.
The Core Accusations
The Bayelsa Rescue Mission is raising the alarm over what they call a disturbing political imbalance. According to a statement by the group’s Publicity Secretary, Kalas Agai Nimitenbofa, key political responsibilities are being kept within just a few specific areas of the state.
The group claims that top leaders, such as the Governor (from Kolokuma/Opokuma), the Deputy Governor (from Sagbama), and the Secretary to the State Government (from Southern Ijaw), are all drawn from outside Bayelsa East and major parts of Yenagoa. As a result, the BRM argues that the highest level of political decision-making in the state has zero representation from these excluded areas.
Areas Feeling Left Out
The group specifically points out that the Bayelsa East Senatorial District, which includes the Brass, Nembe, and Ogbia local government areas, is being sidelined. They also noted that several communities within the Yenagoa local government area are feeling the same sting of exclusion.
The BRM stressed that these areas contribute heavily to the state’s economy and should not be treated as outsiders. They warned that ignoring these key areas looks like “nepotism taken too far” and could create bad feelings among the citizens.
A Call for Fair Inclusion
The BRM made it clear that they are not just begging for political favors. Instead, they are demanding fairness, equity, and equal representation.
They believe that the government is a shared institution that belongs to everyone, not just a select few. The group is urging Governor Diri to review his current political setup to ensure that every part of Bayelsa has a real sense of belonging and access to how decisions are made.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As Bayelsa State moves closer to the political realignments expected in 2027, the issue of Bayelsa East marginalisation is likely to remain a hot topic. Questions about fair representation and who gets a seat at the table will continue to put pressure on the Diri administration. For the government to maintain peace and trust, addressing these concerns of political exclusion might become a top priority.