A Yenagoa-based socio-political group, the Bayelsa Democratic and Development Initiative (BDDI), has thrown its weight behind Architect Reuben Okoya, as governorship aspirant for the December 5 governorship race.

The group’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Ekiyor Welson, said at a news conference in Yenagoa on Thursday, that Okoya has the requisite character to succeed Governor Seriake Dickson.

Welson said the support was necessitated for people to tap into his wealthy of expertise to develop the state.

“Okoya, an architect and a former two-time Commissioner for Special Projects in the state, served in the administration of former Governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha. His competence, exposure, education, wisdom, energy and experience are needed to pilot the affairs of the state at this crucial time,” he said.

Welson said that a careful study by the group showed that under the present government, essential social amenities are lacking in the state and the state capital, Yenagoa, remain slum.

“Disorderliness and lawlessness in the state have become the orders of the day while absence of governance is very noticeable. There is no potable drinking water in the entire state and the people rely on water vendors, sachet water and the numerous rivers that cover the state.”

Welson said the task therefore, was for the people to vote out the present administration and usher in a competent and purposeful person in the forthcoming elections.

The group called on Okoya to intensify campaigns for the governorship seat of the state without further delay.

“We therefore call on all well-meaning individuals, groups and institutions to provide the necessary incentives and motivation to make this vision come to pass.”

Okoya was until May 29, the Coordinator of the Abuja Metropolitan Management Council.

•Photo shows Architect Reuben Okoya.

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