By Passman Akpos
In a rare display of public–spirited leadership, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has drawn national attention after acquiring a commercial aircraft for the state—an act many analysts have described as one of the purest demonstrations of patriotism and selflessness in recent governance history.
While several incumbent and former governors are known for securing private jets for personal comfort, Governor Diri, barely a few years in office, opted instead to invest in a state-owned aircraft designed specifically for commercial flight under Bayelsa Air.
But rather than commendations, the development ignited a surprising wave of criticism, not about the initiative itself, but about the inscription on the aircraft.
Public reactions fixated on labels like “SDD” and the word “Sampou” on the aircraft body—an issue aviation experts quickly dismissed as unnecessary. Aviation professionals clarified that every aircraft, like vehicles, ships, and even submarines, carries unique identifiers, including alphanumeric markings and sometimes distinctive names chosen by owners or operators.
Industry observers note that airlines such as Air Peace regularly adorn their aircraft with culturally-inspired names, many of which are native or symbolic. In this light, the inscription “Sampou”—a Bayelsa community—falls well within global aviation norms.
“If it wasn’t Sampou, critics would have argued for Yenagoa, and if Yenagoa was used, others would still disagree,” Hon. Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli remarked. “Some would even insist on adding every Bayelsa community name, which would be absurd.”
Ikuli, in a strongly worded statement, urged the public to commend rather than crucify leaders who steer development-driven initiatives.
He drew parallels with the late Governor DSP Alamieyeseigha, who faced fierce opposition when he established the Niger Delta University (NDU) and initiated the Yenagoa–Amassoma road project. Today, both landmarks stand as some of Bayelsa’s most transformative achievements—fueling education, commerce, population growth, and urban expansion.
Communities like Otuoke, Toru-Orua, and Sampou are already reaping the ripple effects of infrastructural decisions once criticized by skeptics.
Ikuli expressed strong optimism that Bayelsa Air could soon replicate the success story of Ibom Air, which faced early ridicule yet now ranks among Nigeria’s most efficient state-owned airlines with an expanding fleet and nationwide acclaim.
“As Bayelsa Air grows, it’s only a matter of time before numerous communities and prominent Bayelsans have their names proudly displayed on our aircraft,” he added.
Ikuli concluded with a call for unity and encouragement:“Let us applaud Gov. Douye Diri for consistently projecting Bayelsa in a positive light. Let us also pray that he finishes very strong.”
