Over 625 former and serving councillors under the aegis of Grassroots Forum from the eight local government areas of Bayelsa State have put aside their political differences and endorsed the incumbent Governor, Hon. Seriake Dickson, for a second term, describing his achievements in four years as unequal.
The councilors made the endorsement sequel to a motion moved by a representative of Brass Ward 8, Mr. Precious Daniel and seconded by Mr. Edward Oyaotu at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Yenagoa.
Speaking, Chairman of the Councillors Forum, Mr. Tonkumo Igoniwari, said former and serving legislators from 1999 to date unanimously adopted Governor Dickson based on his achievements in the last couple of years, addressing the challenge of infrastructural deficit and issues of security and education in the state.
Citing government’s efforts on the construction of the three senatorial district roads, Igoniwari expressed optimism that in the nearest future, he would be able to drive to Ekeremor.
He described Dickson as a true democrat by allowing them to serve out their tenure when he became governor of the state, pointing out that the gesture was a clear departure from the past.
Responding, Dickson expressed appreciation for the vote of confidence passed on him, noting that their support would spur him to do more exploits in the development of the state.
The governor, who noted that even key opposition members were endorsing him, disclosed that more endorsements will still come as the election approaches.
Describing the councilors as critical builders of democracy, he charged them to mobilize the people at the grassroots and ensure that they deliver their wards, units and local government areas in the coming election.
The governor, who emphasized that the opposition party does not have any structure in the state, said all the 105 councillors are of the PDP, 21 out of the 23 assembly seats belong to the PDP in addition to the PDP eight local government chairmen.
