In a decisive effort to maintain focus on governance, Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has issued a stern warning.
He cautioned his appointees against engaging in political activities ahead of the 2027 elections.
Furthermore, the governor emphasized that any deviation from this directive could lead to dismissal from their positions.
Governor Diri’s warning arises amid increasing political activities within the state, despite the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not releasing official election guidelines yet. During a state executive council meeting in Yenagoa, the state capital, he stressed the importance of adhering to the Electoral Act. This act prohibits political campaigning outside the designated timeframe.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling the mandate entrusted to him by Bayelsans. He stated clearly that he will not tolerate distractions from his administration’s goals. Consequently, he urged his appointees and the general public to concentrate on productive endeavors rather than engaging in premature politicking.
Highlighting the need for patience, Governor Diri advised politicians to respect the electoral process and its regulations. He remarked, “Even the Bible tells us there is a time for everything.” This time, he asserted, is for governance, not for political campaigning. Additionally, he noted the growing public statements about potential candidates for various offices, urging everyone to refrain from politicking until INEC provides guidelines.
Governor Diri made it abundantly clear that any political appointee engaging in premature political discussions would face immediate dismissal. He stated firmly, “If you want to heat the polity, please resign.” Going forward, he warned that any appointee discussing 2027 politics publicly would be sacked. He insisted that any political activities brought to his attention would lead to consequences.
Concluding his remarks, Governor Diri cautioned against overconfidence regarding future elections. He noted, “Elections are in 2027, but some people want to play God.” His statement served as a reminder that no one can predict the future with certainty. Importantly, he clarified that this was not a wish for anyone’s demise but a call for humility and focus on present responsibilities.
The governor’s directive serves as a crucial reminder of maintaining decorum and discipline within Bayelsa State’s political landscape. As the state navigates future electoral processes, it remains essential for leaders to prioritize governance over premature political activities.
