Governor Douye Diri has reaffirmed his administration’s zero-tolerance policy toward drug trafficking and criminal hideouts, vowing to sustain the ongoing crackdown on illicit activities across Bayelsa State.
The governor issued this stern warning during the 42nd State Security Council meeting held on Thursday at Government House, Yenagoa. His remarks followed the recent demolition of a notorious drug den known as “Aboki Quarters” in the Yenizue-Gene area.
Diri disclosed that he personally authorised the weekend raid after receiving intelligence on the criminal activities occurring at the site.
He praised the coordinated efforts of the Commissioner of Police, the 16 Brigade Commander, and the Director of State Security Services (SSS) for the successful operation.
Reports indicate that some displaced individuals have attempted to regroup at a location directly opposite the demolished site. In response, the Governor directed security agencies to maintain a constant vigil and be prepared for further action.
He added, “We cannot continue to encourage shanties where drugs are used to harm our vulnerable youths and destroy their lives. I have seen the new area they are moving to. I am charging the service commanders to take another look at that location and ensure it is also brought down.”
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Addressing potential misconceptions, the governor clarified that the enforcement actions are targeted strictly at criminals and are not an attempt to displace non-indigenes.
He emphasised that Bayelsa remains one of Nigeria’s most welcoming and secure states for law-abiding residents and business owners, regardless of their origin.
However, he expressed strong disapproval of recent cult-related violence that claimed three lives, ordering security forces to ensure the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
The Security Council meeting also hosted Gill Lever, the Deputy British High Commissioner, who was in the state to evaluate the “Brighter Futures” programme. This three-year collaboration between the British government and Bayelsa State aims to steer young people away from crime and substance abuse.
It reduces grassroots cultism and drug dependency, over 200 youths are equipped with vocational tools and trained to start their own businesses and agriculture and technical skills development.
Ms Lever commended the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment as a primary tool for crime prevention.
Echoing her sentiments, the Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Nimizigha, noted that the governor’s support has allowed the state to exceed the expectations of the British High Commission in implementing these social intervention schemes.
