Bayelsa State Governor, Duoye Diri, has placed a ban on the hosting of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in any part of the state.
The decision, announced during a security press briefing on Friday, March 28, has sparked political discussions, given the long-standing rivalry between both politicians.
The governor specifically mentioned George Turner, a political figure from Bayelsa, as the person behind plans to organize an event in honor of Wike.
Expressing concerns over potential threats to public peace, Governor Diri issued a firm directive against the gathering.
“Persons from this state, particularly one George Turner, are threatening the peace of this state.
Recently, there is a Facebook report with his own number that he is going to host the Minister of FCT in Tombia roundabout in Bayelsa. The Minister is not from Bayelsa state. This is not FCT. This is Bayelsa state,” Diri stated.
Furthermore, he ordered all security agencies in the state to remain on high alert, ensuring that the event does not take place.
“All service commanders should be at alert. That meeting must not take place in Bayelsa state. He can host his Minister anywhere outside Bayelsa state,” the governor emphasized.
In addition to banning Wike’s reception, Diri also directed that no public venue or school should be used for any gathering without official approval from the state government.
“I direct further that no public place or school should be used by anybody except by the approval of the state government,” he added.
The move has further highlighted the deep-seated political tension between Diri and Wike, which has been ongoing for years.
While reactions continue to pour in, security operatives have been tasked with ensuring compliance with the governor’s directive.
Meanwhile, George Turner, the organizer of the event, has yet to respond publicly to the ban.
