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Diri’s second term: Yenagoa Constituency I demands Fair & Better Treatment in Political Appointments
Diri’s second term: Yenagoa Constituency I demands Fair & Better Treatment in Political Appointments
By: Michael Mike
political stakeholders in Yenagoa constituency I, mainly the indigenous people of Epie/Atissa hosting the State capital have demanded for a fair and better treatment in political appointments from Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State as he gets sworn in for second term of four years.
The stakeholders under the aegis of Equity Vanguard in a statement signed by Onizibe Samuel Asuefien and made available to our correspondent, lamented that since 1999 the executive arm of government has sidelined the people of Epie/ Atissa as no one has been privileged to occupy the office of Governor or Deputy Governor.
They further pointed out that even the legislative arm of government in the State has consistently left out elected officials from Yenagoa Constituency 1 in its key appointments as none has occupied a principal office ranging from Speaker to Deputy Whip.
The Group stated that though Prof Steve Azaiki was Secretary to the State Government (SSG) for 18 months during the tenure of Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha and Chief Diekivie Ikiogha as Chief of Staff under the administration of Henry Seriake Dickson, these appointments are not commensurate with the contributions and sacrifices of Yenagoa constituency I to the development of Bayelsa State.
The statement read in part: “Surprisingly, in the November 11, 2023 gubernatorial election, Yenagoa constituency I delivered 24,441 votes for PDP, a figure higher than total votes of most local government areas in the state and wonder why Yenagoa constituency I should continue to suffer marginalization in key political appointments in the State.
‘’The people of Yenagoa Constituency have contributed their lands in the state capital for the development of Bayelsa State, a situation that has denied them their full participation in sustainable farming and fishing, the main source of their livelihood. Bayelsa state should be fair to the people of Yenagoa constituency I by ensuring that important political appointments and positions in the executive and legislative arms of government are given to them in recognition of their remarkable contributions to the electoral strength of the Peoples Democratic Party and development of Bayelsa State.
The Group called on Senator Douye Diri, the Governor of Bayelsa State to ensure a better and fair political deal for the people of Epie/Atissa by appointing its valued sons and daughters to key political positions so that they will in turn always show their love and support in the implementation of his policies and programmes.
They said: “To do otherwise will be sad and disappointing but we know and trust that Governor Douye Diri will reward the people of Epie/Atissa this time for their support by addressing their pains.”
Diri’s second term: Yenagoa Constituency I demands Fair & Better Treatment in Political Appointments
Troops engage armed bandits in heavy gun battle during raid on suspected hideout in Zamfara
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation FANSAN YANMA have reportedly engaged armed bandits in a heavy gun battle during a clearance operation at Yankuzo area in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara state.
Security sources said the operation followed aggressive fighting patrol on armed groups into the area, believed to be a stronghold used by suspected bandit elements operating within the axis.
According to the sources, troops advanced into deep into the terrorists enclave of Ado Allero in the early hours of the day and made contact with the armed men, leading to an exchange of fire that lasted for several minutes.
Residents reported heavy gunfire during the confrontation.
Although details of casualties were still being assessed at the time of filing this report, security sources confirmed that troops maintained dominance of the general area and continued pursuit of fleeing armed elements.
Troops engage armed bandits in heavy gun battle during raid on suspected hideout in Zamfara
Troops rescue three kidnapped victims during operation in Niger State
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued three kidnapped victims during a swift response to a distress call in Kusheri village area of Niger state.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the incident occurred on April 21, 2026, when armed bandits invaded the community and abducted three civilians identified as Abdullahi, Saidu Julfe and Kamilu Joddi.
According to the sources, troops deployed at Forward Operating Base Dokan Karji immediately mobilised after receiving the distress alert and advanced towards the area of operation.
On arrival, the troops discovered that the attackers had already fled the scene with the abducted victims towards the Kafin Gora axis.
The troops subsequently launched a pursuit operation, engaging the fleeing suspects in intermittent contact before successfully rescuing all three hostages unharmed.
The rescued victims were later handed over for medical evaluation and debriefing, while troops withdrew to base after securing the general area.
Security sources confirmed that the situation within the area of responsibility remains calm but unpredictable, adding that patrols and surveillance operations have been intensified to prevent further incidents.
They further noted that troop morale and combat effectiveness remain high as operations continue across vulnerable communities within the state.
Troops rescue three kidnapped victims during operation in Niger State
Troops kill suspected Boko Haram fighter in Yobe, recover rifle, motorcycles
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have killed a suspected Boko Haram insurgent during a confrontation in Lotori-Garbiya village, Tarmuwa Local Government Area of Yobe state.
Sources said the incident occurred on April 20 at about 7:00 p.m. after gunmen suspected to be Boko Haram elements stormed the community and imposed illegal levies on residents.
According to the sources, security forces were swiftly mobilised following a distress call and engaged the attackers in a gun battle.
One of the suspected insurgents was killed during the encounter, while others reportedly fled into surrounding bushes.
The sources said an AK-47 rifle and two Kasea motorcycles were recovered at the scene.
Security authorities confirmed that the area had been placed under close surveillance, while patrols were intensified to prevent further attacks.
They added that efforts were ongoing to track down fleeing members of the group.
Troops kill suspected Boko Haram fighter in Yobe, recover rifle, motorcycles
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Troops engage armed bandits in heavy gun battle during raid on suspected hideout in Zamfara
Troops rescue three kidnapped victims during operation in Niger State
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