By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa
Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State marked the sixth anniversary of his administration on Saturday with a thanksgiving service at the Ecumenical Centre, Igbogene.
The subdued ceremony paid tribute to the late Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away during the tenure.
At the service, Governor Diri thanked Bayelsans and other arms of government for their support, attributing the administration’s achievements to unity, tolerance, and collective effort. Reading from Psalm 23:1-6, he urged citizens to work together for the state’s development, noting ongoing projects to open up hinterlands and improve infrastructure.
“God had a plan for bringing me to the APC from the PDP. Let us keep uniting and speak with one voice, and we pray that God will bring another God-fearing leader who will perform better than me,” Diri said.
In a goodwill message, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, described Diri’s rise as a divine intervention. He called the governor the “Miracle Governor” and emphasized that no man can claim credit for his emergence.
“Today, under your leadership, all of us are gathered here. That is why I am saying in church that no matter what you do, it is God that gives power to whoever He wants. Only God made you governor,” Lokpobiri said.
Similarly, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, commended Diri for enthroning peace in the state, noting that it facilitated development across Bayelsa.
Dr. Mitema Obordor, representing Ogbia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, described six years of Diri’s leadership as visionary and impactful. Former Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Bayelsa Elders Council, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah, praised the governor for peace, stability, and infrastructural projects, including the Nembe-Brass road, which reduced piracy and improved unity in the area.
The Lead Pastor of The Refined People’s Assembly, Daddy-Ken Bitere, anchored his sermon on God’s faithfulness, noting that God uses leaders to fulfill His promises. He prayed for continued divine guidance for Governor Diri.
Dignitaries at the service included former First Lady Patience Jonathan, Governor Diri’s wives Dr. Gloria Diri and Justice Patience Diri, senators and members of the Bayelsa State National Assembly, state legislators, the Chief Judge, and traditional rulers.
The service underscored the administration’s commitment to development, unity, and recognition of God as central to leadership success.
The post God, not man, made you governor, Lokpobiri tells Diri appeared first on Vanguard News.
