Reject Politics Of Violence, Thuggery – Diri Urges Bayelsans

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, on Wednesday marked the first day of the New Year 2026 by attending the New Year Service at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Sampou, in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of the state.

The Governor, who was accompanied by members of his family, friends, political associates, and aides, used the occasion to call on Bayelsans and political actors across the state to continue to reject violence and thuggery in the political process.

Governor Diri emphasized that Bayelsa State has moved beyond the era of destructive politics where human lives and property were often lost, stressing that the state cannot afford to return to such dark times.

“This state has moved away from violence and politics of thuggery. Our government has consistently worked to re-orientate the mindset of our people since we came into office. Anyone aspiring to contest elections should do so by convincing the people with their track records and ideas, not through violence”, the Governor said.

Reflecting on the challenges of the previous year, Governor Diri noted that Bayelsa ended 2025 on a sad note with the death of the Deputy Governor, and he later joined the congregation in prayers that such tragedies would not reoccur in the new year.

Dignitaries present at the service included the wives of the Governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Gloria Diri and Justice (Mrs.) Patience Ama Diri, the Member representing Ekeremor Constituency I, Hon. Tare Porri; the Member representing Yenagoa Constituency I, Hon. Ayibanengiyefa Egba; the Member representing Kolokuma/Opokuma Constituency I, Hon. Werinipre Pamoh; members of the State Executive Council, as well as other top government officials, family members, and friends.