Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has attributed his rise to leadership to unwavering faith in God, earning him the title “miracle governor.”
Speaking at the Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area Annual Day of Thanksgiving on Friday in Sampou, the governor recounted a defining moment in his political journey.
In a heartfelt address, Diri revealed an encounter in 2020 when a prominent Nigerian elder invited him to Abuja, urging him to perform rituals to secure his position as governor. At the time, Diri was challenging the declaration of the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate as the winner of the November 2019 governorship election, with the case awaiting a Supreme Court ruling.
“He flew in marabouts from Senegal and asked me to perform sacrifices, but my faith in God would not allow me. He demanded a refund of $10,000 spent on their travel, which I paid,” Diri narrated. “When the Supreme Court eventually ruled in my favor, he was shocked and never contacted me again. Sadly, he later passed away.”
Governor Diri credited divine intervention for his victory against all odds, urging politicians to place their trust in God rather than relying on human machinations.
The Thanksgiving Day, now institutionalized through local legislation, was described by Diri as a testament to the faith and unity of the Kolokuma/Opokuma people. He expressed gratitude to Apostle David Zilly Aggrey of the Royal House of Grace Church, who initiated the annual event, and praised the local council for its development strides.
“Kolokuma/Opokuma people have every reason to thank God. As a state, we must embrace civility in politics and recognize that God determines greatness,” he added.
In his welcome remarks, the council chairman, Tariye Lelei, highlighted the progress under Governor Diri’s leadership, noting that the annual thanksgiving, held every January 17, reflects the community’s gratitude for divine blessings.
Apostle Aggrey, in his sermon, urged the younger generation to appreciate the transformation of the region, emphasizing the significance of gratitude in acknowledging God’s faithfulness.
The event underscored the governor’s message of faith, gratitude, and civility, resonating with a state witnessing steady progress under his administration.
No Comments