Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has stood his ground, asserting that he owes no one an explanation for his recent visit to President Bola Tinubu after the Supreme Court upheld his victory in the presidential election. Addressing the public during the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) governorship campaign trail in Igbedi community, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, Governor Diri addressed the concerns raised by the opposition, describing them as baseless and false.
The opposition has been quick to raise eyebrows over Governor Diri’s visit, creating a fuss over the seemingly unusual encounter. However, the governor emphasized that there was nothing out of the ordinary about his meeting with President Tinubu.
“Thursday, I was in Abuja, and as most of you saw from the trending video, the opposition is now jittery and spreading falsehoods. Naturally, that is in their character,” Governor Diri stated, confidently defending his actions.
As a sitting governor, Governor Diri firmly stated that he had every right to congratulate President Tinubu after the Supreme Court’s verdict on the presidential election. He further clarified that the purpose of his visit to the presidential villa was to discuss crucial state matters, revealing that the president received and responded positively to the issues he raised.
“There is a sitting president, and as a sitting governor, I do not owe them any explanation regarding my visit. If the Supreme Court affirms the president, I reserve all rights to pay him a visit. But let me make it clear that my visit went beyond mere pleasantries. I went for very serious state business, and I can confidently inform you that Mr. President dedicated his attention to all the important matters I brought forward,” Governor Diri explained in a composed manner.
The governor’s visit to President Tinubu comes in the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling, which upheld his victory in the presidential election. As the governor continues to fulfill his duties, he remains unapologetic for exercising his right as a sitting governor to engage with government officials on matters that directly impact Bayelsa State.
With his clear stance, Governor Diri has dispelled any attempts to discredit his visit and has reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of Bayelsa. As this political saga unfolds, it is evident that Governor Diri’s priority is the progress and development of the state he leads.
