Bayelsa PDP Faction Knocks Gov Diri For Sacking Aides Over Mega Rally

The Bayelsa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has knocked Governor Douye Diri for sacking some of his appointees for taking part in a recent mega rally organised in the state.

The rally was organised in suport of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election by a faction of the chapter loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

In a statement on Thursday signed by the Publicity Secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee in the state, Derri Wright, the faction accused the governor of intolerance and high-handedness, which it said, runs contrary to democratic principles.

“We strongly condemn the sacking of these political appointees, who identified with the NEW Associates political group and participated in the mega rally held in solidarity with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike,” the statement said.

The PDP faction said the governor’s action was regrettable, stressing that the affected individuals are card-carrying members of the party.

It reminded Governor Diri of the roles played by the sacked appointees in his victory during the last governorship election in the state.

The faction urged the governor to reconsider the decision in the spirit of internal democracy and party unity, warning that such actions could deepen divisions and weaken the PDP’s cohesion in future elections. 

“The PDP is deeply concerned about the level of intolerance and abuse of public power exhibited by Governor Diri. It is important to note that neither the government of Bayelsa State nor the treasury of the state belongs personally to Governor Diri.

“Rather, they are public assets that should be used to serve all citizens equitably and without sentiment or emotion. The party is saddened that the sacked aides committed no known offence that would warrant their dismissal.

“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, which are alien to the PDP.

“It sends a chilling message to political office holders and citizens alike, discouraging them from aligning with movements that promote positive change and political accountability. Such actions have no place in a democracy and betray the ideals of leadership that we expect from our elected officials,” the statement added.

The faction called on the governor to reconsider his decision and to embrace the principles of inclusion, respect, and open dialogue.

Continuing, the statement said, “Our leaders must foster an environment where diverse opinions and grassroots movements are welcomed rather than stifled. Democracy thrives on debate, collaboration, and unity, not on division and fear.

“We urge all stakeholders, political leaders, and citizens to join us in advocating for a more tolerant and inclusive political culture that honours the contributions of all who seek to uplift our beloved Bayelsa State and Nigeria as a whole.”