The Need To Institutionalize And Internalize The Highly Commendable Political Culture Of Gov. Douye Diri 

WISDOM ONIEKPAR IKULI 

Many years ago, multitudes of Bayelsans admired, commended, and celebrated Governors of other states who were performing excellently and delivering dividends of democracy to their people. In the midst of the above, they always prayed and wished for a time that Bayelsa State would also be blessed with a leader who will be passionate about the growth and development of our great state.

Today, the story has changed for good. Since the inception of the ASSURED Prosperity Administration, Bayelsa State has remained in the news for very positive reasons.

Bayelsa State presently ranks as one of the rapidly developing states in the country. Bayelsa is leading many states in the areas of infrastructure, sports, education, and others.

The state currently occupies a very enviable position as the SAFEST STATE in Nigeria due to the Community Policing Strategy of the government.

Bayelsa State has also broken another groundbreaking record as first state that has successfully built an independent power project to provide uninterrupted electricity.

The several good news associated with Bayelsa State summarizes and also amplifies the position of the Bible about leadership of the righteous. The Bible says that the people rejoice when the righteous rule (Proverbs 29:2).

Before the inception of the prosperity administration, many shops in Yenagoa and it’s environ were empty. The economy of the state was almost grounded. But today, it is very difficult to get shops or living accommodation due to the influx of multitudes to the state.

Bayelsa State is presently one of the outstanding lands of opportunities in the country.

The story of the state has changed from negative to positive due to the body language and political culture that Gov. Douye Diri is promoting.

Gov. Douye Diri does not believe or encourage violence. He does not encourage or patronize cultism and any form of crime and criminality.

He does not hate or promote any form of discrimination and segregation among Bayelsans.

His humility, unassuming nature, peaceful disposition and compassion for the needy, vulnerable people, orphans, widows, and others who are suffering different forms of social disabilities is exceptional.

He does not see himself as a superior being to other Bayelsans which is the reason he does not alienate himself from the masses.

Gov. Diri is one leader that always remember his humble beginning. He believes in the greatness of all Bayelsans. He does not look down or treat any Bayelsan as a lesser being.

He does not listen to gossip or draw hasty conclusions about people. Rather, he believes in personal relationships. He also believes in giving people opportunities to express themselves.

He is a very good listener. He does not claim to know everything. He does not take hasty decisions. He believes in wide consultation and consensus building.

Senator Douye Diri does not force anyone to follow him or subscribe to his political ideologies. Rather, he allows everyone to follow their minds.

He does not query the political parties, camps or caucuses that anyone belongs. He respects the decisions of people around him including those of his appointees.

Many years ago, Bayelsans were denied opportunities because of their political beliefs and affiliations. Businesses of members of the opposition were grounded. Most members of the opposition slept with one eye open for fear of the unknown. But today, no Bayelsan is discriminated against or denied opportunities because of political affiliation.

Bayelsans no longer identify themselves based on local government areas, section or political party, rather they first identify themselves as Bayelsans before talking about LGA and other considerations.

Gov. Douye Diri through his unique leadership style and good works has successfully restored the confidence and self-esteem of Bayelsans who are now very proud as Bayelsans.

His high regard for hardwork is encouraging Bayelsans to be very productive and resourceful. Today, young Bayelsans are venturing into many positive ventures that will bring pride and honour to the state.

Moving forward, there is need to institutionalize and internalize the political culture of Gov. Douye Diri that places high premium on love, peace and unity, hardwork, reward for efficiency and productivity, political freedom, zero tolerance for envy, hatred, jealousy, and zero tolerance for any form of crime and criminality.

Indeed Gov. Douye Diri is a positive omen. He is truly one of the greatest things that has happened to Bayelsa State and majority of Bayelsans.

– Hon. Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli
Technical Adviser to the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State on Media and Public Affairs.