The Bayelsa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly condemned Governor Douye Diri for dismissing political appointees who participated in a rally organized by the NEW Associates, a political group loyal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement issued by the publicity secretary of the PDP caretaker committee in Bayelsa, Derri Wright, the party described the governor's actions as "an alarming demonstration of intolerance and high-handedness," which it claimed goes against democratic principles. The PDP expressed its concern over what it called a punitive move against political appointees who are members of the PDP and had played key roles in securing Governor Diri’s re-election.
The statement read: “We strongly condemn the sacking of these political appointees, who identified with the NEW Associates political group and participated in the mega rally held in solidarity with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike."
The PDP also expressed regret over the dismissals, pointing out that the affected individuals were loyal members of the party who had worked hard to secure the PDP’s victory during the last governorship election, which saw Governor Diri re-elected.
The party urged Governor Diri to reconsider his decision and reminded him that his office should serve all Bayelsa citizens equitably, without sentiment or emotional decision-making. The statement further emphasized that the actions taken by the governor were "alien to the PDP" and represented a breach of trust and a disregard for democratic participation.
The PDP’s statement continued: "Sacking these political aides, who believed in our vision as a party and worked diligently to promote inclusivity and civic engagement, represents a severe breach of trust and an affront to democratic participation."
The party warned that such actions could deepen divisions within the PDP and weaken its cohesion ahead of future elections. It called for an environment that fosters inclusivity, collaboration, and respect for diverse opinions, instead of one that stifles grassroots movements and promotes division.
In closing, the PDP urged all stakeholders, political leaders, and citizens to advocate for a more tolerant and inclusive political culture in Bayelsa and Nigeria, one that honors the contributions of all who seek to uplift the state and the country.
