From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies to protect lives, property, and critical national assets.
Speaking at Government House, Yenagoa, during a meeting with heads of security agencies on Tuesday, including Rear Admiral N.M. Madugu (Operation Delta Safe Commander), Rear Admiral Ahmed Gaya (Central Naval Command), and Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Tolani Alausa (Zone 16), Diri pledged logistical support, including patrol vehicles and boats.
Diri stated: “As a government, we are working around the clock with the security agencies so that our people can sleep with their two eyes closed and also ensure that national assets are safe for the benefit of the people and the government.”
He emphasised that oil and gas assets benefit communities, the state, and the federal government, adding, “Often, it is misconstrued as though these assets are only for the federal government. Rather, they are for the state, communities, and the federal government. So we must work hand in glove to ensure they are safe.”
Addressing AIG Alausa, Diri referenced his role as Commissioner of Police during the 2023 governorship election, urging professionalism: “Let bygone be bygone and work according to your conscience. Ensure that you are repentant and do what is right. Your zone covers Bayelsa and Rivers states, and let the interest of both states be uppermost on your mind.”
Madugu, the new Operation Delta Safe Commander, sought state support to protect oil facilities and meet the presidential mandate of 2.5 million barrels per day (mbpd) production.
On community disputes, Diri dissolved the youth body in Famgbe, Yenagoa Local Government Area, ordering the Commissioner for Youth Development and the Commissioner of Police to organise a proper election.
He warned feuding communities like Ogboinbiri, stating, “Every other feuding community, including Ogboinbiri, we are still watching you. I have told all traditional rulers. If you cannot ensure peace in your domain but are waiting for my wrath to fall on you, then both traditional rulers and youth bodies will be sacrificed.”