Governor Diri also warned against the practice of bush burning, citing its environmental and economic risks. He instructed the Commissioner for Information to launch a sensitization campaign to educate residents on alternative farming methods.
Yenagoa – Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Niger Delta University (NDU) chapter, to suspend its ongoing strike.
The governor assured the lecturers of his administration’s commitment to addressing their grievances and improving their welfare.
The appeal was made on Wednesday during the 148th State Executive Council meeting at the Government House, Yenagoa. Governor Diri, who recently returned from his annual leave, emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving the issues and urged the striking lecturers to prioritize the interests of students and the institution.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Daniel Alabrah, the governor expressed concern over the strike, which began on December 10. He reiterated his administration’s respect for lecturers and commitment to ensuring their welfare.
“Let me call on ASUU that strikes should be the last resort. I invite them to return to the negotiation table as the issues can be amicably resolved,” Diri said. “Government is committed to prioritizing the welfare of lecturers and workers. Let us also consider the future of our children and the younger generation. Lecturers hold a significant place in this state, and we value their contributions.”
At the same meeting, Governor Diri addressed the enforcement of the state’s law banning open grazing, warning that violators would face strict penalties. He directed government agencies to ensure compliance and called on community leaders to cooperate in implementing the ban.
“We banned open grazing in this state in 2022, and the ban remains in force. It is a crime for herders to destroy farmlands. All relevant agencies are directed to ensure no herder is allowed into our bushes,” Diri stated.
The governor specifically cautioned cattle herders, particularly those from the northern part of the country, against operating in Bayelsa State, emphasizing that violators would be held accountable.
“All community leaders are hereby instructed to ensure that no cattle herder operates within their domains. Our laws against open grazing must be fully implemented,” he added.
Governor Diri also warned against the practice of bush burning, citing its environmental and economic risks. He instructed the Commissioner for Information to launch a sensitization campaign to educate residents on alternative farming methods.
“Bush burning is not an option. I call on our people to stop it immediately and adopt better farming practices that protect both the environment and the people,” he said.
The governor expressed gratitude to the people of Bayelsa for their support during his leave and encouraged continued cooperation for the state’s development.
“Thank you for your unwavering support while I was away. Let us continue to work together for the progress of our state,” he concluded.
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