By Julius Agadaga, Yenagoa

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has charged anyone aspiring to succeed him in 2027 to seek God’s guidance and approval, declaring that the next governor of the state must be a God-fearing individual.

Diri said no human being could frustrate a candidate approved by God, stressing that the affairs of Bayelsa State had been committed to the Almighty, who would ultimately determine the state’s political future.

The governor spoke on Monday during the 15th annual Thanksgiving Service of the Bayelsa State Government, held at the Ecumenical Centre, Igbogene, Yenagoa.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, the governor urged political aspirants to prioritise God’s direction rather than rely solely on personal ambition and political calculations.

“All who want to be governor, go and seek the face of God. Anyone who wants to be governor must be God-fearing. If God said yes, nobody can say no, not even me,” Diri declared.

He also called on the people of the state to embrace unity, tolerance, patience and peaceful coexistence, noting that these values were essential for sustainable development.

The governor expressed appreciation to the people for their support for his administration over the past six years, saying the progress recorded in the state was sufficient reason to give thanks to God.

“Those of us who were born in Yenagoa or know Bayelsa of old can see the difference today. It is enough to give thanks,” he said.

Diri maintained that Bayelsa possessed enormous development potential, citing its natural environment and resources, adding that his administration remained committed to improving the living conditions of the people.

“We have one of the best environments in Nigeria and, with the political will we are bringing, development is coming to our people,” he stated.

He urged residents to remain steadfast in their faith and continue to support efforts aimed at advancing the state.

Christians Must Be Good Citizens, Cleric Says

In his sermon, the guest preacher and former Bayelsa State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Very Rev. Joseph Opelema, urged Christians to demonstrate their faith through responsible citizenship, integrity and service to humanity.

Speaking on the theme, “Called To Be Good Christians And Good Citizens,” Opelema said Christians had a dual responsibility as members of the church and citizens of the society.

Drawing his message from Matthew 22:15-22, where Jesus Christ addressed the question of paying taxes, the cleric said the biblical instruction to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God underscored the importance of responsible citizenship.

According to him, Christians must demonstrate the virtues of sacrifice, prudence, accountability, justice, love, care and charity in their private lives and public engagements.

He lamented that while churches were filled with worshippers, many Christians failed to reflect the teachings of Christ in their daily conduct.

Opelema urged believers, particularly those occupying public offices, to serve as witnesses of Christ by promoting justice, fairness, accountability and the welfare of the people.

He described Bayelsa as a state richly endowed with natural and human resources, including rivers, fertile land and favourable weather conditions, which he said could make it a major tourism destination in Nigeria.

The cleric expressed optimism that with visionary and God-fearing leadership, the state could harness its abundant resources to achieve greater development.

Governor Unveils Book

Highlights of the thanksgiving service included the unveiling of a book titled Lively Oracle, which contains scriptural declarations made by Governor Diri during his morning devotions.

The event also featured musical ministrations by various gospel artistes.

Dignitaries at the service included the governor’s wives, Dr. Gloria Diri and Justice Patience Diri; Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, and his wife, Dr. Favour Akpe.

Former deputy governors of the state, Rt. Hon. Peremobowei Ebebi and Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (rtd.), were also present.

Other attendees included members of the National and State Assemblies, as well as federal and state government officials.