Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, has defended his support for the re-election of Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, in the November 11, 2023 off-cycle governorship poll. During a yuletide visit by Governor Diri and a high-powered delegation to his residence in Yenagoa, Jonathan expressed that he owed no one apologies for endorsing Diri, stating that it was the right thing to do as the governor had the backing of the majority of Bayelsa people.
Accompanied by his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, the former President explained that he publicly endorsed Diri’s candidacy during the campaigns due to the governor’s visionary leadership and successful management of the state’s affairs. Jonathan commended Diri for his developmental efforts, particularly in ensuring peace and stability in the state.
Jonathan stated, “I did what I did during the governorship election, and I have no apologies to anybody because I know that the Governor and his team were doing very well, especially in the area of peace and stability of the state.”
Highlighting the reduction in the excesses of cult groups, particularly in Yenagoa, since Diri assumed office, Jonathan emphasized the importance of addressing security concerns to attract investors for the state’s progress. He encouraged Diri to continue his good work during his second term, acknowledging the governor’s vision and the need to support him in fulfilling the high expectations of his massive support base.
In response, Governor Diri expressed gratitude for Jonathan’s support and endorsement, recognizing the former President’s significant contribution to the Peoples Democratic Party’s victory. Diri credited Jonathan’s endorsement as invaluable and thanked him for bringing stability to the state. The governor expressed optimism about Bayelsa’s readiness for private investors, given the current state of peace and security. Diri also conveyed his confidence in Jonathan’s potential role in reconciling people across the country and the African continent for the sake of peace and development. He expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for ensuring a peaceful, free, and credible election in the state
