Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has sacked 27 political appointees over their attendance at a recent political gathering aligned with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike.
The dismissed officials, who include Special Assistants, members of the Grassroots Mobilisation team, and the Conflict Resolution Committee, were said to have participated in an event organised by the NEW Associates, a pro-Tinubu political group led by George Turnah.
The directive for their dismissal was conveyed through a letter signed by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Irorodamie Komonibo, and addressed to the Secretary to the State Government. It ordered the immediate termination of their appointments and the return of all government property in their possession.
The development has stirred controversy within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, where a faction has condemned the decision.
Reacting to the sack, Derri Alasuote Wright, Publicity Secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee, described it as “unjust” and “a demonstration of intolerance.”
“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,” Wright said.
He called on the governor to reverse the decision, urging him to uphold democratic values.
“We call on Governor Diri to embrace the principles of inclusion, respect, and open dialogue,” he added.
However, Ebiye Ogoli, Publicity Secretary of the PDP State Working Committee, dismissed the caretaker committee’s position, stating it holds no legitimacy within the party structure.
“Bayelsans are happy with Governor Douye Diri, as evidenced by the outpouring of love for the administration,” Ogoli stated.
