Osinbajo to inaugurate Oxbow Lake Road as Diri reaffirms power project

Michael Olumide

Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has urged residents to remain patient as the state’s independent power project approaches full operational takeoff, dismissing claims that the initiative has failed.

The governor stated that the 60-megawatt gas-fired turbine plant, installed by his administration to deliver round-the-clock electricity across the state, remains firmly on course. The project was among those commissioned on April 10, 2026 by President Bola Tinubu.

Speaking during the weekly Prosperity Walk at the Samson Siasia Sports Complex, Diri explained that the facility is currently undergoing final technical processes, including the installation of critical protective devices necessary to safeguard the turbines and ensure long-term efficiency.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, the governor appealed to citizens not to be swayed by what he described as politically motivated criticisms of the project.

“There is nothing like darkness,” Diri said, dismissing concerns over delays in power supply. “Those who want to play politics can do so, but we will continue to do what is right for our state and our people.”

He emphasised that the installation of protective systems is essential before the turbines can be fully activated, noting that once completed, the plant would begin operations and silence its critics.

“Immediately the protective devices are fully installed, the turbines will come on to the shame of those who prefer darkness and never believed in the project,” he added.

The governor also used the opportunity to criticise certain political figures whom he accused of undermining their successors.

According to him, true leadership requires supporting and praying for the success of those who come after.

“A good father prays for his child to succeed more than him. Any political father who does otherwise bad,” Diri said, urging restraint in political rhetoric to avoid misleading followers.

Meanwhile, the governor announced that former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo is scheduled to visit Bayelsa State on Monday, April 20, 2026, to inaugurate the Oxbow Lake-Agbura Road project.

He noted that Osinbajo, who had previously performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the Angiama-Oporoma Bridge, would also inspect the project following its recent commissioning by President Tinubu.

Diri reiterated his administration’s commitment to infrastructure development and improved power supply, assuring Bayelsans that the independent power project would soon begin delivering on its promise of uninterrupted electricity across the state.