Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has expressed satisfaction over the peaceful resolution of the Soku oil well dispute between Bayelsa and Rivers states.
Speaking in Port Harcourt during a Yuletide visit to his Rivers State counterpart, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Diri praised the leadership that facilitated the agreement to return to the pre-crisis status quo, leading to the withdrawal of the court case.
“The peaceful relations between our states are essential for development,” Diri said. “Going forward, we must maintain this understanding to ensure sustained progress.”
Diri commended Fubara’s approach in handling the demolished Bayelsa government property in Port Harcourt, noting that both states are close to resolving the matter amicably despite the case being in court.
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling common challenges, such as vandalism, which has plagued critical infrastructure. Highlighting the recent establishment of a joint task force to curb vandalism, he said, “When our state was in darkness for four months due to vandalism of TCN facilities, we stepped in to address the situation. Now, we have a joint surveillance team, and we are pleased with the progress.”
Diri called for regular interactions between the two states to sustain their unity. “Rivers and Bayelsa are one. Since your administration began, peace has prevailed. The Soku oil well matter is now resolved, and both states are working together on various fronts,” he added.
In response, Governor Fubara underscored the mutual dependence of Rivers and Bayelsa, emphasizing that cooperation is crucial for the progress of both states. “We are inseparable, and whatever affects one state impacts the other. Our development must be collective,” Fubara noted.
He urged Diri to revive the BRACED Commission to strengthen regional cooperation among Niger Delta states, reiterating the importance of unity for the overall development of the region.
“Leadership is about serving the people and leaving a lasting legacy. We must ensure our states live peacefully together, as there is no real difference between us except for administrative purposes,” Fubara stated.
During his visit to Port Harcourt, Diri also attended the 80th birthday celebration of retired General Stanley Diriyai. The governor described the celebrant as a mentor, a father figure, and a proud son of Bayelsa State.
