February 12, (THEWILL) – Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has reaffirmed his commitment to building a better state and society, stating that his administration remains focused on leaving behind a legacy of progress and development.
Diri made this known on Wednesday during a memorial service in honour of his late father, Pa Abraham Joseph Michael Diri, at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Sampou, in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area** of the state.
Pa Diri, a retired headmaster and an embodiment of humility, passed away on February 12, 2023, at the age of 88.
Speaking at the service, the governor described his father as a man of virtue who instilled strong moral values in him and his siblings, emphasizing that his goal is to ensure that Bayelsa progresses beyond what he inherited.
“We went to school in mud houses, but today, we are handing over something better to our children. Our children will also hand over something better to theirs. Society will continue to grow, but it does not happen overnight,” Diri said.
He urged Bayelsans, particularly politicians, to foster peace and unity rather than engage in divisive actions that could destabilize the state.
Diri also cautioned youths against being lured into cultism, stating that it does not offer a pathway to success.
“The only group I belong to is God’s group. If there is no peace, there will be no development. When a state is constantly in crisis, even its citizens will no longer want to return home,” he added.
The governor explained that the first memorial of his father could not hold as scheduled because it coincided with his second-term inauguration, expressing appreciation to the church, political associates, and all who attended the service.
In his sermon, the Bishop of the Northern Izon Diocese of the Anglican Church, Rt. Rev. Funkuro Amgbare, described the late Pa Diri as a hospitable, unifying, and peace-loving man who left behind legacies that positively impacted society.
He urged the congregation to emulate his virtues, stressing that societal progress depends on selfless service and unity.
The memorial service featured a thanksgiving session, a song rendition by Pa Diri’s children led by the governor, and special prayers in honour of the late patriarch.
A highlight of the event was the laying of wreaths at Pa Diri’s tomb.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
