JUST IN: Nigerian Governor Goes on Leave, Hands Over Power to Deputy

Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri has proceeded on his annual leave.

The governor has handed over the reins of power to his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

In a message posted on his X handle, Governor Diri announced that his leave takes effect from today, November 25, 2024.

Diri, who was inaugurated for a second term in February this year, acknowledged that it has been a very busy year for him. However, he reassured the people of Bayelsa State that his absence will not affect governance in the state.

His words, “With effect from today, November 25, 2024, I am proceeding on my annual leave.

“It has been a very busy year for me since our inauguration for the 2nd term in February this year.

“My absence will not in anyway affect governance in the State as the Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, @iamElaw has the mandate to take charge of all state functions.

“Also, my absence shall not in anyway cause delay in the execution of all ongoing projects and programmes by various ministries, agencies and departments.

“On the prolonged blackout in the State, I am happy that our intervention in the repairs of the vandalised towers is yielding result with the completion of restringing of the damaged Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV line.

“In as much as the transmission line does not belong to the Bayelsa State Government, our intervention was purely in the interest of the people.

“I understand the pains and the economic loss our people have been subjected to due to the blackout. The business owners are the worst hit!

“With the comprehensive repair works done so far, I am hopeful power will soon be restored once the recently vandalised conductor at towers 29 to 31 is replaced.

“I have also been reliably informed that both conventional and local security have been engaged at Ula Ikata and Ihuike communities in Ahoada-East LGA of Rivers State to secure the site until other repair works are completed.

“While we battle to restore public power, our government has commenced a process to develop our own Independent Power Plant through the procurement and installation of new Gas Turbines.

“We are committed to ensuring steady electricity supply in the State in line with our ASSURED Prosperity Agenda.

“Happy New Week all as I officially proceed on my leave. Nua!”