Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has officially transferred power to his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, as he begins his annual leave on November 25, 2024. In a post shared on his social media platform, Governor Diri assured the people of Bayelsa that his temporary absence will not disrupt governance or delay critical state functions.
In his statement, Diri acknowledged the busy year following his re-election in February, expressing that the time off is well deserved. Despite his leave, he emphasized that governance would continue seamlessly under the leadership of Deputy Governor Ewhrudjakpo, who has been granted full authority to oversee state matters in his absence.
“The absence will not, in any way, affect governance in Bayelsa,” Diri stated. “Senator Ewhrudjakpo has been mandated to take charge of all state functions, ensuring that ongoing projects and initiatives continue without hindrance.”
One of the key issues the governor addressed was the ongoing power crisis affecting the state. He highlighted the government's proactive role in addressing the prolonged blackout caused by the damage to power transmission lines. The governor noted that despite the transmission lines not being under the direct control of the Bayelsa State Government, the administration’s intervention has significantly advanced repairs, including the restoration of the Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV line. Diri expressed optimism that the blackout would soon be resolved, particularly after the replacement of damaged components in the affected towers.
“I am aware of the hardship the blackout has caused, particularly for business owners,” Diri acknowledged. “We are working tirelessly to resolve this, and I am hopeful that power will soon be restored.”
Governor Diri also provided an update on security measures in the areas where repairs are underway, particularly in Ahoada-East Local Government Area in neighboring Rivers State. Both conventional and local security forces have been deployed to ensure the safety of workers and the security of the site.
In addition to addressing the immediate power restoration efforts, Diri outlined plans for the long-term energy stability of Bayelsa. He revealed that the state government has embarked on an ambitious project to develop its own Independent Power Plant (IPP), including the procurement and installation of new gas turbines. This initiative is part of the state’s broader strategy to ensure a reliable power supply, in line with the administration’s "Assured Prosperity Agenda."
As he officially began his leave, Diri expressed confidence that the momentum of governance would continue smoothly under Ewhrudjakpo’s leadership. "I look forward to returning after my break, but rest assured, Bayelsa’s progress remains on track," he concluded.
The governor’s statement highlighted his commitment to the people of Bayelsa, reassuring them that the government’s dedication to progress and prosperity is unwavering, even in his absence.
