The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has hailed members of the Armed Forces as a unique group of individuals committed to extraordinary service.
This was disclosed on Sunday by Daniel Alabrah Chief Press Secretary to the governor.
The Governor who spoke on Sunday at a thanksgiving service to commemorate the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa, emphasized the significant sacrifices made by the military to ensure the safety and stability of the nation.
Diri highlighted the supreme price paid by soldiers, both in active service and retired, and urged Bayelsans to continually honour their contributions. He said, “Today, we gather to appreciate God for the lives of a very special group of people who have dedicated their lives, even unto death."
"They are essential to us as a country and a state, and we must honour and celebrate them. While we remember and thank God for the families of fallen soldiers, we also celebrate those who are still alive.”
In his address, Governor Diri called on politicians to uphold democratic principles by respecting electoral outcomes. He criticized those who resort to violations when results are unfavourable to their interests, urging them to accept defeat with maturity to sustain the nation's democracy. “For democracy to thrive, we must embrace civility and respect for electoral rules,” he remarked.
Addressing security concerns, Governor Diri directed an increase in security measures at Igbogene and the Bayelsa Transport Terminal following recent clashes between rival cult groups.
He also warned youth groups against extorting passengers and transport operators, emphasizing that the state government would not tolerate disruptions at the terminal.
Delivering a sermon titled The Power of Unity, Pastor David Yalah, Chaplain of the King of Glory Chapel, stressed the importance of sacrifice in fostering unity, warning that delays in achieving harmony often lead to greater societal costs.
The service was attended by Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, other state officials, legislators, judiciary representatives, and top government functionaries, including retired Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah and Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei.
Others were The Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Peter Akpe, his deputy, Irorodamie Komonibo, the Head of Service, Mrs. Biobelemoye Charles-Onyema and other top government functionaries.
