Diri Assures Epie-Atissa of More Development

...Pays Tribute To Late Monarch

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has said his administration will embark on more development- oriented projects in Epie-Atissa, hosts of the state capital.

Senator Diri gave the assurance when he led a high-powered delegation on a condolence visit to the Yenagoa Community Council of Chiefs over the demise of their paramount ruler, Chief Maxwell Clarkson Kikile.

He said Yenagoa as host to the capital city of Bayelsa deserved more social amenities. 

He said among other projects, more internal roads will be constructed in Yenagoa and that solar light will also be installed on the road leading to the late paramount ruler’s palace.

The Governor in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, said the Yenagoa ring road from Elebele to Igbogene was almost complete and would soon be inaugurated.

Commiserating with the Kikile family, Senator Diri said the state lost a worthy leader whose reign was not only peaceful but also successful.

His words: “I attest to the peaceful 41-year reign of Chief Kikile and we commend the  people of Yenagoa for their peaceful conduct and support. Peaceful communities such as Yenagoa always attract development."

"We try as much as possible to touch the lives of people we lead. When we learnt he was ill, we brought Chief Kikile to the Government House Specialist Hospital to monitor his condition and we were even prepared to fly him abroad for treatment. But we thank God immensely for the life he lived. He contributed to the development of his community by ensuring that peace reigned in his domain."

Responding to their requests, the Governor directed the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure to construct a standard culvert on the canal leading to the monarch's palace as well as ensure the clearing of the drainage ahead of the flooding.

"On my way to the palace, l saw the temporary culvert and l decided we will construct a new one. We have done far better culverts in other areas of the state."

On the request to upgrade the chieftaincy stool to first class, Diri said he would consult and seek advice before taking any decision.

In his remarks, spokesman of the Yenagoa council of chiefs, Chief Couple Anyamelem, expressed gratitude to the Governor for identifying with them in their moment of grief.

He said Chief Kikile was aged 89 and died on August 3 this year. 

He solicited the support of the State Government for a week-long burial programme.

Anyamelem applauded the Prosperity Administration for its developmental strides, adding that the installation of solar lights in Yenagoa has greatly enhanced security and socio-economic activities.

Shortly after the visit, the Governor inspected the ongoing construction of the Gwegwe road, one of the internal roads within the Yenagoa community.

Dignitaries who accompanied the Governor included his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Senator, representing Bayelsa Central senatorial district, Konbowei Benson, member representing Yenagoa-Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Oforji Oboku, and the House of Assembly member representing Yenagoa Constituency 1, Ayibanengiye Egba. 

Others were Secretary to the State Government, Alabo Gideon Ekeuwei, State Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party, Mr. Solomon Agwana, Commissioners and other top government functionaries.