At least 27 political aides to Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State have been sacked after attending the inauguration of a grassroots political movement, The NEW Associates, and participating in a mega rally in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, News360 Nigeria reports.
The affected individuals were relieved of their duties via a formal letter titled “Termination of Appointment” dated April 23, 2025, and signed by the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Irorodamie Komonibo. The letter stated that the termination was with immediate effect and referenced official communication records detailing their appointments.
PDP Reacts: ‘A Disturbing Show of Intolerance’
The Bayelsa State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) swiftly condemned the action, labeling it an “alarming demonstration of intolerance and high-handedness.” In a statement signed by Derri Alasuote Wright, Publicity Secretary of the PDP Caretaker Committee, the party expressed deep disappointment over the dismissals.
“The sacking of these political appointees from the Prosperity Administration is particularly unfortunate,” the statement read. “They are all party members who believed in our vision and laboured for our collective success.”
The PDP emphasized that the dismissed aides played significant roles in securing Governor Diri’s re-election, and accused the governor of misusing his office to punish perceived dissenters.
A Call for Political Tolerance
The PDP warned that Governor Diri’s move could discourage political engagement and suppress internal diversity within the party. Describing the action as a “severe breach of trust and an affront to democratic participation,” the party urged the governor to reconsider his decision in favor of inclusivity and tolerance.
The statement concluded with a broader appeal: “Together, let us stand firm in our commitment to democracy, solidarity, and the right to associate freely.”
The sackings highlight growing tensions within the PDP and raise questions about freedom of political association in the state’s ruling administration.
