…commends Gov Diri’s devt efforts
By Palma Ileye
Former Niger Delta militant leader, General Endurance Amagbein, has joined other eminent personalities to congratulate the government and the good people of Nigeria on the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary and 30 years of the creation of Bayelsa State.
Amagbein, in an October 1st message issued to newsmen in Abuja, lauded President Bola Tinubu and his team for sustaining the vision of the founding fathers of the nation, and stressed the need for continuity in 2027.
The ex-agitator fondly called Adaka Boro the second also called on Nigerians to strengthen national unity and cohesion as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary and gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.
He said despite the challenges, the two milestones provided an opportunity for Nigerians and Bayelsans to reflect on the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers and the responsibilities of the present generation.
He stated that even though Nigeria has passed through military rule, civil conflict, political transitions, economic challenges and security concerns since independence, there’s need for citizens to continue to demonstrate resilience in order to reach the promise land.
He maintained that the policies and programmes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since he assumed office in May 2023 have brought a thriving economy which is benefiting both Nigerians and foreigners.
Amagbein said despite fears expressed by some Nigerians that the foreigners will take over the market and entire economy, the truth remains that this is happening because President Bola Tinubu has created a sustainable economy which is conducive for businesses to thrive.
The ex-agitator said he has received uncountable criticism both on social media and offline for supporting the administration of President Bola Tinubu, but maintained that he is still happy supporting the Renewed Hope Agenda because, despite the criticisms, nobody has beaten Tinubu’s record.
He said when Tinubu hands over power in 2031, his successor will have to work ten times harder to match the achievements of the current administration in virtually all sectors.
Amagbein also expressed gratitude to the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and all the service chiefs for the gains recorded in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crimes in the country.
He said a few months ago, Nigerians were worried because of the activities of some bloodthirsty elements sponsored by the opposition to turn Nigeria upside down with kidnappings, especially the abduction of schoolchildren, but with the help of the security agencies under the current leadership, the nation’s dignity has been restored and criminals no longer have any place to hide.
He said this feat could not have been possible if the service chiefs were not proactive. He said the morale of officers and men of the various security agencies have been boosted more than ever.
According to him, this government has paid more attention to the plight of the military, and invested in the welfare of officers more than any government.
Amagbein said elections are fast approaching and politicians will promise heaven and earth just to be voted into power, but he maintained that President Bola Tinubu remains Nigeria’s hope for a better tomorrow.
On the 30th anniversary of Bayelsa State, Amagbein stressed the need for more developmental projects to be sited in the state.
He said as the headquarters of Ijaw nation, Bayelsa’s progress is tied to the unity of stakeholders across board.
Amagbein expreses his gratitude to His Excellency-Sen. Douye Diri for sustaining peace in BayelsaState, stating his selfless contributions to the relection of the governor in the last 2023 election, which decision he never regrets.
Amagbein reiterated that Sen. Douye Diri has made significant impact in the infrastructural wellbeing of Bayelsa State, after all, “The devil you know is better than the Angel you are yet to meet” he emphasized
Amagbein said in other ethnic nationalities, despite their political inclinations, they still find a common ground to unite and push for the development of their states.
He cited the recently concluded Osun State Governorship election where the people are forging ahead after a tough political battle. He said communities in Bayelsa State and other parts of Ijaw land are still in ruins and yet to recover from the negative effects of elections held many years ago.
He said there’s need for the Ijaw nation to realize that election is never winner takes it all or about killing or silencing dissenting voices, but the unity and development of the land and people of the state.
Amagbein said in no distant time, Bayelsa will be marching into another governorship election, and that there’s need for election related issues to be resolved peacefully immediately after every poll, adding that it is the only way to guarantee the peace and development of the state.
