PDP, Bayelsa govt clash over poverty
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has insisted it will continue to hold the Bayelsa State Government accountable over what it described as worsening poverty and hunger across the state, despite criticism from the administration.
The opposition party said its constitutional role was to scrutinise government policies, demand accountability and ensure that the interests of Bayelsans were protected.
*PDP
Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has insisted it will continue to hold the Bayelsa State Government accountable over what it described as worsening poverty and hunger across the state, despite criticism from the administration.
The opposition party said its constitutional role was to scrutinise government policies, demand accountability and ensure that the interests of Bayelsans were protected.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Ikaebimo Mark, the PDP said the state government’s response to its earlier criticism failed to address the concerns it had raised and instead exposed what it described as a lack of a clear economic strategy.
The party alleged that the administration of Governor Douye Diri had focused on defending itself rather than confronting the rising cost of living, unemployment and declining living standards in the state.
According to the PDP, the government has yet to present verifiable evidence demonstrating significant progress in reducing poverty and hunger during the more than six years it has been in office.
“After more than six years in office, Bayelsans deserve to know why poverty continues despite unprecedented financial inflows to the state,” the statement said.
The party also questioned why unemployment remained high, businesses continued to struggle, investment had yet to translate into broad-based economic growth, and many families were finding it increasingly difficult to afford necessities.
It further claimed that the government’s Prosperity Agenda had fallen short of its promise to deliver economic opportunities and improved living standards for residents.
The PDP argued that Bayelsans were judging the administration by their daily experiences, which it said were characterised by hunger, unemployment, diminishing purchasing power and economic hardship.
It maintained that holding the government accountable was a fundamental responsibility of any credible opposition and vowed to continue speaking out on issues affecting the people.
The party also argued that the reported cordial relationship between Governor Douye Diri and President Bola Tinubu would have little significance unless it resulted in tangible improvements in the welfare of Bayelsans.
Responding to allegations that it was divided, the PDP dismissed claims of factionalisation, insisting it remained united and the strongest political platform in the state.
The party said it would continue strengthening its structures across Bayelsa’s 105 wards and eight local government areas as part of preparations for the 2028 governorship election.
“The suffering of Bayelsans is too serious to be politicised. The government must stop arguing and start governing,” the statement said. The Bayelsa State Government had earlier defended its performance following the PDP’s criticism, setting the stage for an exchange between both sides over the state’s economic conditions and governance.
