Bayelsa Election: Dickson, security agencies collaborate to check kidnapping, crime
Felix Okoye
Governor of Bayelsa State, Hon. Seriake Dickson, has said his administration is collaborating with relevant security agencies of the government to check kidnappings and other threats to the peace and security of the state during and after the December 5 governorship election.
Dickson who stated this during an interactive session with chiefs, chairmen and secretaries of community development committees at Government House, Yenagoa, said he had set up structures and systems to check threats to peace, security of lives and property across the state.
The Governor gave out dedicated phone lines to the various leaders to communicate with the government during emergencies in their domains, assuring that his government will not play politics with their security.
He charged the community leaders to sensitize their subjects on the importance of the forthcoming gubernatorial election, stressing that, the power to determine the result of the election is in their hands, because it will be held in the communities.
On his economic programme for the people, Dickson explained that, his administration believes in sustainable economic empowerment, which informed the setting up of the Izon-Ibe Microfinance Bank and urged them to take advantage of the various facilities provided by the bank to empower themselves.
He stressed that, as leaders, they have the right to recommend people to secure loans, adding that, they should inform their subjects of the facilities to better their lives.
He said, “I want to count on your support as your development, security is on course. If you do otherwise, we shall be looked down upon and laughed at by other tribes, and that is why on that day, you shall be given security and I want you to set up your own security.
“There are kidnappings here and there, and I want you to organize your own security to ensure effectiveness. Therefore, list out your challenges and send them across to us.
“I enjoin you to stand strong, organize yourselves into structures and work to secure your communities and do not be intimidated. You should stand up for your right and fight for your destiny.
“I have directed my officials and party leaders preparing for elections to liaise with you and keep your communities safe.”
In his welcome remarks, the State Commissioner for Community Development and Chiefaincy Affairs, Chief Martins Agbede, assured them of government’s support at all times, pointing out that, their security during this period of electioneering will be guaranteed.