Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has lauded members of the Armed Forces as a unique group dedicated to a challenging and selfless service.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service on Sunday to commemorate the 2025 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, held at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa, Governor Diri emphasized the sacrifices made by soldiers for the nation and urged Bayelsans to honor their contributions.
“Today, we are gathered to appreciate God for the lives of some very special group of people, a people that dedicated their lives even to death. They are very special to us as a country and as a state. So we need to honor and celebrate them,” Governor Diri said.
The governor paid tribute to families of fallen soldiers while celebrating retired and serving members of the armed forces.
Call for Respect of Electoral Rules
Governor Diri also addressed political actors, urging them to respect electoral rules and accept outcomes with maturity. He stressed that for democracy to thrive, civil governance must be upheld, and politicians should avoid violating electoral processes when results do not favor their interests.
Security Measures at Igbogene and Transport Terminal
In response to recent clashes between rival cult groups at Igbogene, a suburb of Yenagoa, Governor Diri directed security agencies to reinforce their presence in the area, particularly around the newly established Bayelsa Transport Terminal. He issued a stern warning to youth groups engaging in extortion activities, cautioning them to stay away from the facility.
The Power of Unity
Delivering the sermon titled “The Power of Unity,” Chaplain of the King of Glory Chapel, Pastor David Yalah, emphasized the necessity of unity and the price required to achieve it. He noted that delays in fostering unity only increase the cost for everyone.
Attendance at the Thanksgiving Service
The event saw an impressive turnout of state leaders and dignitaries, including Deputy Governor Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Leader of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Monday Bubou (representing the Speaker), and President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Daniel Ayah (representing the Chief Judge).
Others in attendance included former Deputy Governor Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), Secretary to the State Government Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, Chief of Staff Dr. Peter Akpe, his deputy Irorodamie Komonibo, and Head of Service Mrs. Biobelemoye Charles-Onyema, alongside other top government officials.
Governor Diri’s remarks and the measures taken reflect his administration’s commitment to security, unity, and the preservation of democratic values in Bayelsa State.