Bayelsa Governorship: Gov Diri Reveals $10,000 Paid to Kenyan Marabouts

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa recounts an alleged $10,000 payment made to Kenyan marabouts, shedding light on unusual details surrounding the governorship race.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has revealed a remarkable story about the spending of $10,000 on Kenyan marabouts for spiritual assistance in his journey to become governor—an idea he ultimately turned down.

During the Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area (KOLGA) Annual Day of Thanksgiving held in Sampou on Friday, Diri attributed his victory and the nickname “Miracle Governor” to his steadfast faith in God.

Reflecting on the events of 2020, the governor shared how a respected elder had summoned him to Abuja and encouraged him to undertake specific rituals to ensure his success as governor. Diri, who contested in the 2019 Bayelsa governorship election as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, initially lost to Chief David Lyon from the All Progressives Congress (APC). Nonetheless, after pursuing legal action, he was ultimately declared victorious by the Supreme Court.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Daniel Alabrah, Diri disclosed that during the time his case was before the court, the senior citizen had invited spiritualists from Senegal to perform rituals. However, he firmly declined to take part in them.

The governor stated that the man claimed to have spent $10,000 on transportation for the marabouts and asked for reimbursement. The governor decided to refund him because he firmly believed that only God could ensure his victory.

Diri revealed that during his visit to the senior citizen, who has since passed away, he was accompanied by his deputy and a friend. The governor highlighted that this experience serves as a reminder for politicians to place their trust in God instead of turning to dubious sources for assistance.

Reflecting on the progress made in Kolokuma/Opokuma, Diri expressed appreciation for the area’s development and praised the local council for instituting an annual thanksgiving event.

He expressed his gratitude to Apostle David Zilly Aggrey, who started the program, stating, “I am here today thanks to his prayers and God’s faithfulness. Now it is customary for the people of Kolokuma/Opokuma to come together and give thanks to God.”

In his sermon, Apostle Aggrey emphasized the significance of the tradition of thanksgiving, pointing out that younger generations may not fully recognize the challenges faced by their predecessors. He commended Bayelsa’s advancements under Diri’s leadership and expressed optimism for ongoing progress.

Governor Diri urged for civility in politics, encouraging all stakeholders to acknowledge God’s sovereignty over human affairs and refrain from causing harm in the quest for power.