Okpebholo Snubs Crucial South-South Govs’ Meeting in Bayelsa

Kehinde Fajobi

Governors of the South-South geopolitical zone convened on Tuesday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, to address pressing economic and security challenges affecting the region.

The meeting, hosted by Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, was attended by Governors Bassey Otu (Cross River), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom).

However, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo was absent and did not send a representative.

In his opening remarks, Governor Diri stressed the importance of regional collaboration, saying, “The swiftly changing landscape of our country and the world at large highlights the clear and urgent need for enhanced regional collaboration and development.

“Our shared progress and prosperity are tightly connected to our capacity to work together toward a common aim.”

He called for renewed efforts to address issues like security, agriculture, education, power, and youth empowerment, adding, “Everywhere we turn, it seems that the proverbial curse of oil wealth has held us hostage.”

Governor Diri urged his colleagues to revitalise the BRACED Commission to drive collective development and to prioritise actionable steps over mere communiqués.

He also proposed regional flight and railway connections and pushed for the swift completion of the East-West Road, saying, “It is time to turn words into action and transform our shared aspirations into tangible results.”

On security, he highlighted recent incidents in Okuoma, Okoloba, and Igbomotoru, urging the governors to develop region-specific measures.

“By pooling together our collective wisdom, experiences, and resources, we can devise strategies to prevent and mitigate future security threats,” he said.

Governor Diri also emphasised collaboration with federal agencies like the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to align interventions with state priorities.

He concluded by expressing optimism about the region’s potential, stating, “May this meeting be a turning point in our collective journey towards realizing our true potential.

“Together, let us rise above our challenges, seize our opportunities, and fashion a brighter future for our region.”

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