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Bayelsa: PDP challenges Diri to tackle rising hunger, poverty

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed fears over rising hunger and poverty in Bayelsa State, challenging the state governor, Senator Douye Diri, to place priority on the fight against economic hardship in the state.

The opposition party said it is disturbing that the cost of living continues to rise while the purchasing power of ordinary Bayelsans has steadily declined, leaving many families struggling to meet their basic needs.

Hon Ikaebimo Mark, the Publicity Secretary of the party, in a statement, noted that despite increased revenues accruing to the state through improved derivation and enhanced federal allocations, the living conditions of many citizens have worsened, with hunger and poverty becoming daily realities across communities in the state.

The party pointed out that hunger knows no political party, tribe, religion, or social status, stressing that every responsible government must place the welfare of its people above every other consideration.

It expressed disappointment that despite all the numerous Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) announced by the present administration over the years, Bayelsans are yet to witness the level of tangible local and foreign investments capable of driving industrial growth, creating jobs, and stimulating sustainable economic development.

The party therefore urged the state government to invest directly in the people through programmes that create jobs, stimulate economic activities, support small and medium-scale enterprises, empower youths and women, and improve the overall standard of living of Bayelsans.

The statement read in part: 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.

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

‘’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.

‘’As Bayelsans begin the second half of the year, the party warmly felicitates with its members and the good people of the state, urging them not to lose hope but to remain steadfast in the belief that better days lie ahead.

‘’The PDP reassures Bayelsans that it remains resolute in its commitment to providing purposeful, compassionate, and people-centred leadership.