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Baayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has paid glowing tributes to the late Senator Melford Okilo and former President Goodluck Jonathan, describing them as icons of peaceful, people-focused politics.
Governor Diri made the remarks during his thank-you tour to Ogbia Local Government Area on Thursday, where he acknowledged the enduring legacies of the two influential political figures from the region.
Speaking at a community gathering in Ogbia town, the governor hailed Senator Okilo, who governed the old Rivers State from 1979 to 1983, as a visionary leader who pursued development through dialogue and service.
“Chief Melford Okilo was my mentor. He led with peace, not violence, and prioritised the wellbeing of his people. His influence continues to shape Bayelsa and beyond,” Diri said.
He also applauded Dr Jonathan’s calm and conciliatory approach to leadership, noting that his legacy of non-violence and statesmanship continues to earn him international respect.
“President Jonathan remains a global symbol of democratic values. His famous statement—that his ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian—still resonates deeply,” the governor added.
Governor Diri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ongoing infrastructure and education projects in Ogbia.
He pledged to complete the Akaba–Okodi Road and the science and technical college at Opukeme before the end of his tenure, stating that the projects form part of a broader strategy to empower the youth through practical education.
“We are moving from a paper-based qualification system to one that equips our children with real-world skills,” Diri said. “Each local government will have a technical college, and in Ogbia, it will be delivered with free tuition, feeding, and accommodation.”
The governor urged residents not to be distracted by divisive political actors, stressing the need for unity and focus on collective progress.
“Ogbia is central to Bayelsa’s political history. Your support has always been organic and genuine, and we are here to say thank you,” he stated.
In a show of support, Senator Benson Agadaga, representing Bayelsa East, commended Governor Diri’s peaceful leadership and infrastructural efforts, especially the work on senatorial roads and initiatives like the proposed oil and gas free zone aimed at youth employment.
Also speaking, the member representing Ogbia Federal Constituency, Chief Mitema Obordor, described Diri’s governance as responsive and inclusive.
State assembly members Hon. Gabriel Ogbara and Hon. Richard Ibegu, along with Ogbia Local Government Chairman, Golden Jeremiah, also expressed appreciation for the governor’s commitment to the development of the area.
Earlier, chairman of the Ogbia Brotherhood, Dr Azibalogoa Seibofa, thanked the governor for his developmental focus and urged timely completion of ongoing projects.
The event attracted a large turnout and featured cultural displays and traditional wrestling, reflecting the community’s appreciation and rich heritage.
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