Nigeria: Abacha Freed Ijaw From Oppression By Creating Bayelsa, Diri Says

What the report says

Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri has praised late military ruler Sani Abacha for creating Bayelsa State in 1996, saying the move helped the Ijaw people escape oppression and gain a more unified political home. The remarks were made in Yenagoa during a dinner and awards ceremony marking the state’s 30th anniversary, held at the Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha Memorial Banquet Hall in Government House.

According to Premium Times, Diri acknowledged that Abacha remains a controversial figure nationally, but argued that Bayelsans view the state’s creation as a major historical turning point. He said the anniversary was meant to celebrate the state’s progress since its creation, including growth in education, roads and other infrastructure. He also said the state had moved from having very limited higher-education options and a single main road to a wider network of institutions and highways.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan was among the 63 people and groups honoured at the event. He dedicated his award to his late mentor, Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, and said Bayelsa had benefited greatly from statehood, while still facing unfinished development goals. Diri and Jonathan both expressed gratitude to Abacha’s family, which attended the ceremony.

The honours covered a range of categories, including politics, culture, sports, education, business and public service. The event also drew government officials, traditional rulers, diplomats and other guests as Bayelsa continued a four-day anniversary programme themed “Celebrating Legacies.”