Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, reaffirmed his commitment to improving the state during a memorial service held in honor of his late father, Pa Abraham Joseph Michael Diri, on Wednesday. The service took place at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Sampou, Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area, marking a poignant occasion as the governor reflected on his father’s legacy.
Pa Diri, who passed away on February 12, 2023, at the age of 88, was remembered as a dedicated Lay Reader in the Anglican Church and a retired headmaster known for his humility and positive influence. Governor Diri spoke fondly of the values his father instilled in him and his siblings, emphasizing that these virtues would guide his efforts to create a better Bayelsa for future generations.
During his address, the governor expressed his desire to leave behind a legacy that surpasses what he inherited from his father. “I will ensure that my children inherit a better society than the one my father left for me,” he stated. He urged Bayelsans, especially politicians, to foster love and unity, warning against divisive actions that could destabilize the state.
Governor Diri also addressed the youth, cautioning them against the allure of cultism as a means to achieve their aspirations. He recalled his own upbringing, stating, “We went to school in mud houses, but today we are handing over something better to our children.” He emphasized that societal progress takes time and requires peace and cooperation among citizens.
“If there is no peace, there will be no development,” he asserted, encouraging residents to support one another rather than fostering division. “Let us not pull down one another. Instead, let us support ourselves, and our state will be better.”
The memorial service was particularly significant as it was the first held for Pa Diri, which had been postponed due to the governor’s inauguration for a second term. Governor Diri expressed gratitude to the church, political associates, and attendees for their presence at the service.
In his sermon, Rt. Rev. Funkuro Amgbare, the Bishop of the Northern Izon Diocese of the Anglican Church, praised the late Pa Diri for his legacies that positively impacted society. He described him as a hospitable, unifying figure and a peacekeeper, urging attendees to emulate his qualities for the betterment of society.
The service featured various elements, including thanksgiving, musical performances led by the governor’s children, prayers, and praise and worship sessions. A highlight of the event was the laying of a wreath at the tomb of Pa Diri.
In attendance were various dignitaries, including members of the House of Representatives from Sagbama/Ekeremor, Ogbia, Nembe/Brass, Southern Ijaw, and Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma federal constituencies. Other notable attendees included the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, state lawmakers, high-ranking government officials, clergy, and traditional rulers, led by King Bubaraye Dakolo, chairman of the state Traditional Rulers Council, and Prof. Benjamin Okaba, president of the Ijaw National Congress.
The memorial service not only honored the memory of a beloved father and community figure but also served as a platform for Governor Diri to articulate his vision for a united and prosperous Bayelsa State.
