ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reiterated his unapologetic stance on endorsing and supporting the re-election of Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, in the 11 November, 2023, off-season governorship polls.
Justifying his decision, Jonathan asserted that it was the right course of action, as Governor Diri enjoyed significant support from the majority of the state’s populace to continue in office.
Speaking during Governor Diri’s Thank-you visit, accompanied by a high-powered delegation, to Jonathan’s residence in Yenagoa, the former president emphasized his public endorsement during the campaigns.
In a statement issued by Diri’s Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, it was revealed that Patience, the wife of the former President, was also present to welcome the governor and his entourage.
Diri, representing the Peoples Democratic Party, secured victory in the election with 175,196 votes, defeating his closest rival, Timipre Sylva of the All Progressives Congress, who polled 110,108 votes.
Jonathan highlighted Diri’s visionary leadership and developmental efforts, particularly in maintaining peace and stability within the state, as reasons for his endorsement.
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He commended the Governor for reducing the excesses of cult groups, especially in Yenagoa, and stressed the importance of addressing security issues to attract investors.
The former president said, “I did what I did during the governorship election and I have no apologies to anybody because I know that the governor and his team were doing very well, especially in the area of peace and stability of the state. At a time, l became very worried.
“I have not said others did not do well. After all, I was also governor for a little less than one and a half years and also had my challenges.
“Since Diri came on board, the excesses of cult groups, particularly in Yenagoa, have reduced reasonably. If we must move forward, first and foremost, we must handle the issue of security in order to attract investors. I saw that the governor and his team have a vision and he needed to be encouraged to do another four-year term.”
Expressing his confidence in Diri’s leadership, Jonathan urged the Governor to surpass expectations and fulfill the promises of his Prosperity Administration, emphasizing that “to whom much was given, much was expected.”
In response, Governor Diri expressed gratitude for Jonathan’s support, acknowledging its significant contribution to the PDP’s victory. Diri anticipated further roles for Jonathan in reconciling people both within the country and the African continent to foster peace and development.
The Governor also extended thanks to President Bola Tinubu for ensuring a peaceful, free, and credible election in the state, emphasizing that Bayelsa is now ready for private investors with the prevailing peace and security.