Shun Electoral Violence; Diri Warns Youths, Monarchs

Duoye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State has threatened to dethrone monarchs and deregister youth associations of any community where electoral violence occurs.

Monarchs, in his words, were expected to remain non-partisan and neutral in political activities in their domains.

Speaking at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bayelsa Central campaign flag-off in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, he said the electorate should be allowed to exercise their franchise through the ballot and not under threat of violence and death.

“They said they will use guns again. Can they use guns to chase you out again? Any traditional ruler in whose domain politicians use guns to chase away members of any political party will be deposed. After now, l will take the action through my deputy governor, who is in charge of chieftaincy affairs.

“Youth associations of such areas will also be de-recognised. I mean every word of this warning. Traditional rulers should remain apolitical and our youths have to be disciplined. Politics does not mean killing your brother but to use your voter’s card.”

Speaking on the various litigations by aggrieved party members, Diri pleaded with them to jettison their action, urging them to use internal mechanisms in the party to resolve disputes.