From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
The abrupt termination of 27 political appointees by Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has sparked tension in the state.
The appointees, primarily special assistants, members of the Grassroots Mobilisation team, and the Conflict Resolution Committee, were reportedly dismissed on April 23 due to their affiliation with the pro-Tinubu NEW Associates political group led by George Turnah.
A letter from Deputy Chief of Staff Irorodamie Komonibo to the Secretary to the State Government ordered the immediate cessation of their entitlements and the withdrawal of government property in their possession.
The sack has drawn criticism from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) caretaker committee in Bayelsa. Publicity Secretary Derri Alasuote Wright condemned the action as “unjust” and a “demonstration of intolerance”, stating, “Sacking these political aides, who believed in our vision as a party and worked diligently to promote inclusivity and civic engagement, represents a severe breach of trust and an affront to democratic participation.”
Wright urged Diri to reconsider, emphasising, “We call on Governor Diri to embrace the principles of inclusion, respect, and open dialogue.”
In contrast, Ebiye Ogoli, publicity secretary of the State Working Committee, dismissed the caretaker committee’s claims, asserting it lacks recognition.
Ogoli said, “Bayelsans are happy with Governor Douye Diri, as evidenced by the outpouring of love for the administration,” and promised a future response to those destabilising the state.