Tackle rising hunger, poverty in Bayelsa, PDP slams Diri

Bayelsa State's chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on Governor Douye Diri to prioritize tackling escalating hunger and poverty in the latter half of 2026. The opposition party highlighted that worsening economic hardship is forcing many residents to struggle with basic necessities.

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The time has come for the administration to refocus its policies and programmes to become genuinely people-centred.

In a statement released Friday, the PDP's Publicity Secretary, Ikaebimo Mark, pointed out that the cost of living continues to climb while the purchasing power of Bayelsans declines. This is occurring despite increased state revenue from higher derivation receipts and federal allocations. The party emphasized that hunger transcends political, religious, and ethnic divides, demanding it be treated as a government priority.

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The PDP reiterates its readiness, as a responsible opposition party, to support every genuine effort aimed at addressing the current hardship, hunger, and poverty confronting Bayelsans. The Party is willing to contribute robust and constructive policy ideas and practical solutions in the overriding interest of the state.

The PDP also expressed disappointment that several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) announced by the state government have not yet resulted in tangible investments capable of generating employment and fostering industrial growth. They urged the administration to implement programs that stimulate economic activity, support small and medium-sized enterprises, empower youth and women, and ultimately improve living standards.

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The party therefore calls on the state government to immediately develop strong and effective institutions, invest in industries with high employment potential, pursue aggressive skills acquisition and capacity-building programmes for youths and women, and urgently articulate a deliberate wealth creation and employment generation blueprint capable of restoring economic confidence.

In response, the Bayelsa State Government refuted the PDP's allegations, asserting that Governor Diri's administration has consistently pursued programs aimed at poverty reduction and enhancing residents' welfare. Commissioner for Information, Orientation, and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, described the opposition's claims as misleading. She cited significant government investments in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and youth empowerment over the past six years, mentioning projects like the Nembe-Brass Road and the second bridge as examples of the administration's commitment to development.

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The Diri administration had consistently implemented programmes targeted at reducing poverty and improving residents’ welfare.