… Pass Vote of Confidence on Commissioner Onuma
By Obi Appolos
Indigenes of Abia State residing in Bayelsa State have expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, for his recent appointments of several Abia sons into key leadership positions within the state government. These appointments are seen as a testament to the governor’s commitment to inclusivity and his dedication to fostering a diverse and representative administration.
The appointments, which include the earlier selection of Abia’s illustrious son, Hon. Onuma Johnson, as the Commissioner for Special Duties (General Services), has been met with widespread enthusiasm from the Abia community in Bayelsa. This sentiment was vividly expressed during a courtesy visit led by the Chairman of the Abia State Indigenous Union Bayelsa State Chapter, Chief Udoka Udense, to Hon. Onuma Johnson.
During the visit, Chief Udense conveyed the appreciation of the Abia community to Governor Diri, noting that the governor had fulfilled his promise to integrate non indigenes into the leadership structure of Bayelsa State. He emphasided that the appointments reflected the governor’s progressive stance on governance, which allows people from other regions to contribute to the development of Bayelsa, popularly referred to as the “Glory of All Lands.”
Speaking at the meeting, Chief Udense remarked, “We are here to express our deep appreciation to the Prosperity Government led by Senator Douye Diri for keeping his word and finding our sons worthy to be part of the leadership team in Bayelsa State. This act of inclusion is not only a sign of goodwill but also an opportunity for our people to contribute their skills and expertise to the state’s progress.”
He went further to commend Hon. Onuma Johnson for his diligence and dedication in the discharge of his duties as Commissioner for Special Duties. According to Chief Udense, Onuma’s role has brought honor to the Abia people, Ndi-Igbo, and all non-indigenes living in Bayelsa State. His leadership and service are seen as a beacon of pride for all Abians who have made Bayelsa their second home.
As part of the discussions during the visit, Chief Udense made an appeal on behalf of the Abia community in Bayelsa. He requested that Hon. Onuma Johnson used his good office to facilitate the acquisition of land for the construction of a Town Hall. This Town Hall, he explained, would serve as a gathering point for Abians in Bayelsa to hold their regular meetings and other community-related activities. The request underscores the community’s desire for a permanent structure that symbolizes their unity and presence in Bayelsa.
Also present at the event was Mr. Chibuike Blessing Appolos, one of the recent appointees in Governor Diri’s administration. He used the opportunity to express his gratitude to the governor for appointing him and other Abia indigenes to serve in various capacities. Mr. Appolos pledged his unwavering loyalty and commitment to carrying out the duties assigned to him, stating that the appointments are a responsibility they intend to honor for the good of both Bayelsa and Abia states.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to serve,” Mr. Appolos stated. “Governor Diri has demonstrated that his administration is one that values contributions from all corners of the country. We will not take this for granted, and we pledge to work diligently to deliver on our assignments for the benefit of Bayelsa State.”
In his response, Hon. Onuma Johnson expressed his delight at the visit from his fellow Abians. He acknowledged the leadership of the Abia State Indigenous Union for coming together to show appreciation to Governor Diri. According to him, the governor’s ASSURED agenda, which stands for Accountability, Stability, Sustainability, Unity, Reconciliation, Empowerment, and Development, is designed to ensure the continued development of Bayelsa State and the well-being of its residents, including non-indigenes.
Hon. Johnson urged Abians and all non-indigenes in Bayelsa to remain law-abiding and to contribute positively to the state’s progress. He stressed the importance of peace, unity, and creativity in fostering an environment where all residents, irrespective of their state of origin, can thrive.
“Governor Diri’s administration is one that emphasizes development, peace, and security. We must all play our part in ensuring that Bayelsa remains a peaceful and progressive state,” Hon. Johnson said. He also reaffirmed the commitment of his office to continue implementing the governor’s directives aimed at empowering non-indigenes and ensuring their active participation in the governance of Bayelsa.
The visit saw a broad representation from the Abia community in Bayelsa. Among those present were the leadership of the Abia State Indigenous Union, including the Woman Leader and her executive team, town chairmen, and a host of other Abia sons and daughters. Their presence underscored the unity and solidarity of the Abia community in Bayelsa, as they celebrated the appointments and pledged their continued support for Governor Diri’s administration.
