Nigeria @ 63: Gov. Diri urge Nigerians to be champions of peace and tolerance

The Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has called on Nigerians to join hands in building a society where every citizen has equal opportunity, access to quality education, healthcare and a thriving economy.

Diri made the call in a statewide broadcast in Yenagoa to commemorate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day and the 27th anniversary of the creation of Bayelsa on Sunday.

He also adivsed them to champion peace, unity, and tolerance while embracing their diversity as a source of strength.

The governor said, “As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us not forget the sacrifices made by our founding fathers and the heroes who fought for our freedom. Their bravery and determination have paved the way for us to enjoy the privileges we have today. We must honour their memory by working towards a Nigeria that thrives on unity, justice, and progress.

“As the nation grapples with the consequences of the removal of fuel subsidy, it is my fervent hope that our present difficulties will eventually be over if the right measures are implemented.

“It is important to reiterate that until we institute a culture of respect for our democratic system of electing our leaders, the desire for sustainable development and prosperity will remain but a fleeting illusion, to be pursued but never attained”.

Diri further charged Bayelsa politicians and their followers to eschew violence and brigandage as the state governorship polls scheduled for November 11 inches closer, stressing that democracy thrives on ideas and not bullets.

“That is why we have prioritised peace, security and unity. Without peace and security, there can be no development; and without development there can be no peace and security. Security, peace and development will guarantee our future.

“Politics is a game and must be played according to the rules. Democratic culture across the world is about ideas and ballots, not vain-glorious promises and bullets. Ours in Bayelsa and, indeed, the rest of Nigeria should not be different.

“In celebrating 63 years of our hard-fought independence and 27th anniversary of the creation of Bayelsa State, we must recognise the similarities and aspirations that led to our founding fathers agitating for the creation of this homogenous Ijaw state of Bayelsa, which we are happy to describe as ‘The Glory of all Lands.”