Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has proceeded on his annual leave, effective Monday.
In a statement posted on his X page on Monday, Governor Diri emphasised that his absence would not disrupt governance or delay ongoing projects in the state.
Reflecting on the year so far, he described it as exceptionally busy, particularly following his inauguration for a second term in February.
“My absence will not in any way affect governance in the state, as the Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has the mandate to take charge of all state functions,” he assured.
The governor also addressed the prolonged blackout affecting the state, which has caused significant economic losses, particularly for businesses.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress made in repairing the vandalised Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV transmission line.
“Our intervention in the repairs is yielding results with the completion of restringing of the damaged line,” he said, noting that the Bayelsa State Government’s involvement was driven solely by the need to alleviate citizens’ suffering.
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Governor Diri said to ensure the security of repair sites, local and conventional security forces have been deployed to Ula Ikata and Ihuike communities in Ahoada-East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The governor is optimistic that power will soon be restored, pending the replacement of recently vandalized conductors between towers 29 and 31.
Looking ahead, he revealed plans to develop an Independent Power Plant to secure a stable electricity supply in the state.
“Our government has commenced the process of procuring and installing new gas turbines to realize this vision in line with our ASSURED Prosperity Agenda,” he stated.
