Nigerian gov begins annual leave, hands over power to deputy

Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has officially commenced his annual leave, effective from today, November 25, 2024.

In line with this, the governor has handed over the leadership of the state to his deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo.

Governor Diri, who began his second term in office earlier this year in February, shared the news on his X handle, acknowledging the hectic year he has had so far.

Despite his brief absence, he reassured the people of Bayelsa that the state’s governance will continue smoothly under the leadership of his deputy, ensuring there will be no disruptions in the administration’s operations.

His words, “With effect from today, November 25, 2024, I am proceeding on my annual leave.

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“It has been a very busy year for me since our inauguration for the 2nd term in February this year.

“My absence will not in anyway affect governance in the State as the Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, @iamElaw has the mandate to take charge of all state functions.

“Also, my absence shall not in anyway cause delay in the execution of all ongoing projects and programmes by various ministries, agencies and departments.

“On the prolonged blackout in the State, I am happy that our intervention in the repairs of the vandalised towers is yielding result with the completion of restringing of the damaged Ahoada-Yenagoa 132kV line.

“In as much as the transmission line does not belong to the Bayelsa State Government, our intervention was purely in the interest of the people.

“I understand the pains and the economic loss our people have been subjected to due to the blackout. The business owners are the worst hit!

“With the comprehensive repair works done so far, I am hopeful power will soon be restored once the recently vandalised conductor at towers 29 to 31 is replaced.

“I have also been reliably informed that both conventional and local security have been engaged at Ula Ikata and Ihuike communities in Ahoada-East LGA of Rivers State to secure the site until other repair works are completed.

“While we battle to restore public power, our government has commenced a process to develop our own Independent Power Plant through the procurement and installation of new Gas Turbines.

“We are committed to ensuring steady electricity supply in the State in line with our ASSURED Prosperity Agenda.

“Happy New Week all as I officially proceed on my leave. Nua!”