BAYELSA PDP URGES GOVERNOR DIRI TO PRIORITISE FIGHT AGAINST HUNGER, POVERTY IN SECOND HALF OF 2026

Yenagoa – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State has called on Governor Douye Diri to make the fight against hunger, poverty and worsening economic hardship the central focus of his administration in the second half of 2026.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Hon. Ikaebimo Mark, the PDP expressed concern over what it described as the deteriorating living conditions of many Bayelsans despite increased revenues accruing to the state through improved derivation and enhanced federal allocations.

The opposition party noted that the rising cost of living and declining purchasing power have left many families struggling to meet their basic needs, stressing that hunger and poverty have become everyday realities across communities in the state.

According to the PDP, the welfare of citizens should remain the foremost responsibility of any government, irrespective of political considerations.

The party urged the Bayelsa State Government to implement people-oriented economic policies capable of creating jobs, stimulating business activities, supporting small and medium-scale enterprises, empowering youths and women, and improving the overall standard of living of the people.

The PDP also expressed disappointment that several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) announced by the present administration over the years have yet to translate into tangible local and foreign investments capable of driving industrialisation, generating employment and accelerating sustainable economic growth.

It advised the government to move beyond signing agreements and ensure that such partnerships deliver measurable benefits to the people.

The party further observed that although the current administration assumed office on the promise of a "Prosperity Agenda," the prevailing realities of unemployment, hardship and widespread poverty have left many Bayelsans questioning the practical impact of that vision.

It therefore called on the government to establish strong institutions, invest in labour-intensive industries, expand skills acquisition and capacity-building programmes for youths and women, and develop a comprehensive wealth creation and employment generation blueprint capable of restoring public confidence in the state's economy.

The PDP reiterated its readiness to support every sincere effort aimed at addressing the economic challenges confronting the state, stating that it remains willing to offer constructive policy ideas and practical solutions in the interest of Bayelsa and its people.

However, the party maintained that the present APC-led administration has struggled to provide the innovative and people-focused policy direction required to tackle the state's growing socio-economic challenges.

As Bayelsans commence the second half of the year, the PDP encouraged residents not to lose hope but to remain steadfast in the belief that better days lie ahead.

The party reaffirmed its commitment to providing purposeful, compassionate and people-centred leadership, expressing confidence that Bayelsa can regain its path to prosperity through policies that prioritise the welfare, aspirations and wellbeing of the people.