Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has opened up about a startling encounter during his political journey, revealing how he spent $10,000 to rebuff an invitation to perform voodoo rituals to secure his governorship.
Governor Diri, often referred to as the ‘Miracle Governor,’ shared this revelation during the Annual Thanksgiving event in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area (KOLGA), held in Sampou, his hometown. The event was organized to acknowledge God’s faithfulness in the lives of the people of the area.
The governor recounted a moment of intense pressure in 2020 when his path to leadership appeared uncertain. After challenging the outcome of the November 2019 Bayelsa State governorship election, which initially declared the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate victorious, Diri was fighting his case in the Supreme Court. During this tense period, he was approached by a prominent figure with a peculiar proposal.
A Shocking Proposal in Abuja
According to Diri, the senior citizen invited him to Abuja and suggested he perform sacrifices to increase his chances of securing the governorship. The man went to extraordinary lengths, flying in spiritual practitioners, or marabouts, from Senegal to carry out the rituals.
“I was told to perform certain sacrifices, but I outrightly refused,” Diri said to the audience. “My faith in God would not allow me to compromise. The man became furious and declared I would never become governor.”
The encounter escalated when the individual demanded reimbursement for the expenses incurred in bringing the marabouts to Nigeria. Despite the tension, Diri paid him $10,000 to settle the matter.
“When the Supreme Court eventually ruled in my favor, the man was so shocked he couldn’t even reach out to me,” Diri disclosed. “Tragically, he passed away not long after.”
Diri’s insistence on relying solely on divine intervention earned him admiration from many. Reflecting on the experience, he urged politicians to prioritize faith and integrity over desperate measures.
“God rules in the affairs of men,” he emphasized. “We must trust Him rather than resort to questionable practices. Politics should not cost anyone their humanity or faith.”
The governor highlighted the significance of the KOLGA Annual Thanksgiving event, stating that it symbolizes gratitude to God for His blessings. He commended Apostle David Zilly Aggrey, whose spiritual guidance inspired the institution of the thanksgiving tradition.
“This event has been backed by legislation,” Diri noted. “Kolokuma/Opokuma people now have the opportunity to gather annually to praise God.”
Governor Diri also lauded the development strides witnessed in the Kolokuma/Opokuma area and across Bayelsa State. He attributed the progress to divine favor and the collective efforts of the state’s leadership and people.
“Kolokuma/Opokuma has every reason to be thankful,” Diri said. “As a state, we are committed to ensuring peace and development while avoiding harm in the name of politics. Greatness is destined by God, not rituals.”
A Call to the Next Generation
Apostle David Zilly Aggrey, delivering the sermon at the event, urged younger generations to value the struggles and sacrifices of their predecessors.
“You may not fully understand the challenges we faced,” Aggrey said. “But if you fail to appreciate what God has done for you, you are nothing but ingrates.”
The Apostle praised Governor Diri’s leadership and the developmental projects transforming Bayelsa State, expressing confidence in the governor’s ability to bring about further progress.
Attendance by Dignitaries
The thanksgiving event drew prominent figures from Bayelsa’s political, traditional, and religious circles. Among those present were the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo; members of the State House of Assembly; the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei; and Chief of Staff, Dr. Peter Akpe.
Traditional leaders, including the Ibedaowei of Kolokuma Kingdom, King Onya Mozi Agara, and other elders, also graced the occasion.
A Legacy of Faith
Governor Diri’s testimony serves as a reminder of the power of faith and integrity in leadership. His journey, marked by resilience and divine intervention, continues to inspire Bayelsans to trust in God and embrace gratitude as a way of life.
As Diri concluded his speech, he reiterated his call for civility in politics, stating, “We do not know who God has destined for greatness. Let us play politics with respect and recognise the ultimate authority of God.”
