By Kolawole Ojebisi
Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has explained why his administration is not favourably disposed towards the proposed pro-Wike rally in the state.
Diri stressed that while his government supports the constitutional right to peaceful assembly, it must ensure that the peace and security of the state are not jeopardised.
The rally which is being organised by The New Associate, a group expressing solidarity with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, was planned to take place in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.
But the Bayelsa helmsman on Wednesday during the 158th State Executive Council meeting in Yenagoa, maintained that he could not allow the event to go ahead.
Diri explained that although his administration is not opposed to rallies in principle, it would be “unwise and counter-productive” to hold such an event at a time when peace efforts were underway to address the ongoing political crisis in neighboring Rivers State, which shares close ties with Bayelsa.
“We are not a government that goes against the rule of law,” Diri said.
“We cherish and protect the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. However, as the chief security officer of this state, I must ensure the peace of Bayelsa is not disturbed by any external influence. Rivers and Bayelsa are sister states, and the situation in one affects the other.” he added.
The Governor pointed out that the political climate in Rivers, which has been fraught with tension, could have a ripple effect on Bayelsa, and therefore any rally related to the crisis in Rivers could pose a security risk.
He said, “Some people want to hold a mega rally here, but we are not yet in a political season,”
Diri continued. “I am not stopping anyone from exercising their fundamental rights, but I must act in the best interest of our state. As the chief security officer, I have a duty to preserve peace, and we will not allow any activity that could destabilise our environment.”
The governor further advised that proper protocols for organising rallies be followed, citing the example of the First Lady, Remi Tinubu, who informed the state government of her visit scheduled for Thursday.
He urged Bayelsans to show support for the First Lady’s visit, which is organised in collaboration with the Niger Delta Development Commission.
Governor Diri concluded by calling on Bayelsans to work together in maintaining law and order, ensuring the continued peace and security of the state.
