Gov Duoye Diri
By Victory Useh, Yenogoa
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri on Friday implored the Federal Government to expedite action on the implementation of the 2012 Supreme Court order on the boundary dispute between Bayelsa and Rivers States.
Diri, who made the call in Yenagoa during an interactive meeting between the National Boundary Commission (NBC) and stakeholders of international boundary communities in the state, explained that the apex court had in 2012 ordered the commission to visit the disputed area and properly delineate the boundary between the two states.
Wondering why the exercise had not been carried out nine years after the ruling, Diri expressed disappointment over the speed with which a federal agency implemented the Federal High Court Order delivered in favour of Rivers State in December 2020.
According to him, revenues accruing from the disputed Soku Oil wells are currently being credited to the Rivers State Government instead of depositing such funds in an escrow account pending the final determination of the case.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Lawrence Ewhrujakpo, appealed to the relevant authorities to be above board in their judgements and actions to enhance peace and good neighbourliness between the two .
Diri, who described the Bayelsa people as hospitable and peaceful, however, warned those deliberately offending the sensibilities of the people to turn a new leaf.
While highlighting some of the challenges facing international border communities in the state, including coastal erosion, he equally called on the Federal Government and international organizations to come to the aid of the communities.
The governor said, “We are not here today to talk about internal boundaries. But we will like to use this opportunity to once again remind the National Boundary Commission of our boundary with Rivers State.”
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