The Donald Duke South-South Solidarity Group has criticised Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri over his reported dismissal of former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke’s presidential ambition, accusing him of poor governance and neglect of the interests of the South-South region.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ambassador Simon Ugbong; Vice Chairman, Diepreye Amadein; and Secretary, Christopher Osaretin, the group condemned Diri’s reported remarks, describing them as disrespectful to Duke’s political experience and record in public office.
The group argued that Duke’s achievements as governor of Cross River State remained relevant years after he left office, while questioning the legacy of Diri’s administration in Bayelsa.
It cited infrastructure development and policy reforms under Duke’s administration as examples of projects it said had delivered lasting benefits to Cross River State.
The group, however, accused Diri of failing to provide effective leadership in Bayelsa, alleging that his administration had prioritised foreign travels and projects that had not delivered sufficient benefits to residents.
It also raised concerns about the cost and execution of some state projects, including power infrastructure, roads and bridges. The allegations were contained in the group’s statement and could not be independently verified from the information provided.
Group Raises Questions Over Bayelsa Governance
The organisation further alleged that substantial public funds had been spent without commensurate improvements in the living conditions of Bayelsa residents.
It claimed that the governor had committed significant resources to projects in his local community and questioned the administration’s priorities amid the challenges facing the state.
The group also accused Diri of failing to adequately defend the interests of the South-South region, particularly concerning federal infrastructure projects and issues affecting the Niger Delta.
According to the statement, Duke had continued to speak on matters affecting the region, while Diri should focus more on engaging the Federal Government over concerns affecting Bayelsa and neighbouring states.
The organisation further alleged that the governor’s political decisions, including his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), were motivated by political interests. It did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegation.
Group Defends Duke’s Political Record
The group maintained that Duke’s record as a former governor entitled him to participate in national political discussions without being subjected to what it described as dismissive comments.
It challenged Diri to concentrate on the responsibilities of governing Bayelsa State rather than criticising a former governor whose administration, it argued, had left a lasting legacy in Cross River.
The organisation also questioned how Diri would be remembered after leaving office, comparing the public perception of his administration with Duke’s legacy more than two decades after his tenure.
The statement further accused Diri of treating some political leaders who supported his rise to power unfairly, although it did not provide specific details to support the allegation.
Group Announces Planned Rally
The Donald Duke South-South Solidarity Group announced plans to organise a rally in Bayelsa State and other parts of the South-South region to protest what it described as poor governance and the mismanagement of public resources.
The group said the planned demonstration would draw attention to its concerns about the Diri administration and the need for greater accountability in the management of state resources.
It called on the governor to prioritise governance, infrastructure development and the welfare of Bayelsa residents.
The statement was signed by Ambassador Simon Ugbong, Chairman; Diepreye Amadein, Vice Chairman; and Christopher Osaretin, Secretary, on behalf of the Donald Duke South-South Solidarity Group.
The allegations against Governor Diri represent the position of the group. An independent assessment of the claims, as well as a response from the Bayelsa State Government, would be necessary to establish the facts surrounding the issues raised.
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