Yenagoa—A Yenagoa-based human rights activist, Aluzu Ebikebuna, has averred that Senator Douye Diri has so far performed well as Governor of Bayelsa State.
In an exclusive interview with Mangrovepen.ng, Ebikebuna noted that though the administration may not have performed to the desired expectations of the people, it is trying its best, as governance is a gradual process.
“I believe the Governor is trying his best. We may not have gotten to where we desire as a people but it is a gradual process,” he stated.
When queried about the present administration’s urban renewal drive, the right activist said, “At some point or the other, Bayelsa State will be confronted with this decision. So, it is either now or never.
“However, my concern is the legality of the action of state actors. The urbanization and gentrification of the state capital should be done in accordance with laid down procedures.”
Ebikebuna, who is also a legal practitioner, revealed that the laid down procedures concerning urbanization and gentrification are entrenched in the state Physical Planning and Development Law.
In his own words: “The procedure is as contained in the state Physical Planning and Development Law.
“We have heard series of complaints from those affected over noncompliance but we do not know whether they have approached the appropriate Tribunal to ventilate their grievances.”
Ebikebuna also made his feelings known concerning the anti-open grazing bill sponsored by the state government.
He urged the state government to fully implement the law.
He stated that, “There’s nothing else to be done except enforcing the law. The Bill is a right step in the right direction though I am yet to have a copy of it.”
Ebikebuna further urged Diri to differ from his predecessor, Senator Seriake Dickson, in the area of governance.
When asked what the governor can do differently. Ebikebuna said that the “current administration must be honest to itself and Bayelsans.
“Governance is not rocket science. The previous administration lacked honesty in all ramifications.
“The Diri administration must show honesty and sincerity of purpose in governance, administration and execution of projects.”
The rights activist, however, enjoined Bayelsans to “rally behind the current administration of the state and provide it with the needed support and encouragement because only then can we all achieve a better Bayelsa State.”
