By Gracious George
Following the inauguration of the Bi-Partisan Committee on Peace and Security in Peremabiri, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, on January 6, 2021, by Governor Douye Diri, members of the committee has swung into action.
The committee which was set up by the governor in his effort to foster peace and security among communities in the state, had last week invited stakeholders and the general public to send in useful information that would assist its assignment.
Led by the Senator representing Bayelsa Central Senatorial District, Senator Cleopas Moses, the committee has paid an on-the-spot visit to the community as well as Akama-Ama and Akamabubou communities.
Addressing newsmen, Senator Cleopas noted that the purpose of the visit was to enable the committee have a clear picture of the extent of damage caused and possible ways to remedy the situation.
He explained that it was necessary to hear from stakeholders directly such that effective recommendations can be made to the government which can establish lasting peace and security in the affected communities.
On his part, Secretary of the Committee, Mr. Biriyai Dambo (SAN), assured the people of Governor Diri’s commitment to their safety and well-being, saying the governor will do all in his power to ensure that peace reigns in the community.
Dambo who is also the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice added that the committee is Bi-Partisan which means it is not affiliated with any political party, as Hon. Preye Oseke, the APC member representing Southern Ijaw Federal Constituency is also a member.
In their separate remarks, other members of the Committee, King Bubaraye Dakolo, the Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, King Joshua Igbugburu, the King of Bomo Clan and Comrade Clever Inodu, Chairman Central Zone of the Ijaw Youth Council(IYC), urged the youths to cooperate with them in order to build lasting peace.
The traditional rulers also pleaded with those in the conflicting communities to practice love and show forgiveness as well as be willing to send useful information to the government that will put an end to the protracted crisis.
In their comments, spokesman of Peremabiri Kingdom, Chief Clifford Ogoro and other members of the communities noted that no government has responded to them in such a manner seeing that the crisis has lasted for years.
They pledged their support to the efforts of government that will bring lasting peace to all communities involved, stressing that they also seek an end to the crisis.
I was expecting this committee to carry out the responsibility given to them for over a month now. I am happy that reconciliation processes have started taking place.