“Is Douye Diri Calling Out Seriake Dickson? ‘Bad Father’ Comment Sparks Political Firestorm as Darkness Trails Power Project”—Osinbajo’s Visit Celebration or Distraction?”
.......Diri Defends Bayelsa Power Project, Urges Patience as Osinbajo Set to Commission Key Road
By Paul Ebi
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has called for patience from residents over the delayed takeoff of the state’s independent power project, insisting that the initiative remains firmly on course despite growing concerns.
The governor dismissed claims suggesting the project had failed, clarifying that the 60-megawatt gas-fired turbine plant—commissioned on April 10, 2026 by President Bola Tinubu—is currently undergoing final technical installations.
Speaking during the weekly Prosperity Walk at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex in Yenagoa, Diri explained that critical protective devices were being installed to safeguard the turbines and ensure long-term efficiency.
“There is nothing like darkness,” the governor said, pushing back against critics. “What you are seeing are the finishing touches. Once the protective systems are fully in place, the turbines will come on stream.”
He accused some political actors of attempting to politicize the project, noting that initial skepticism about the plant’s feasibility had now shifted to criticism over its timeline.
“From the beginning, they said we would fail. Now we have surprised them, and they are not happy,” he added.
Diri also took aim at political figures he described as “bad fathers,” criticizing those who undermine their successors instead of supporting their growth.
“A good father prays for his child to surpass him. Any political father who does otherwise sends the wrong message,” he stated.
Meanwhile, the governor announced that former Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, is scheduled to visit Bayelsa on Monday, April 20, 2026, to inaugurate the Oxbow Lake–Agbura Road.
According to Diri, Osinbajo—who previously performed the groundbreaking ceremony for the Angiama-Oporoma Bridge—will also inspect the bridge project following its commissioning by President Tinubu.
The developments signal ongoing infrastructure efforts in Bayelsa, even as the state government seeks public understanding over delays in delivering uninterrupted power supply.
