By Stepp Offi
The Bayelsa State government has said it had uncovered an orchestrated plot by some political actors in the state for a coordinated media onslaught on it, that is aimed at scoring cheep political fortunes ahead of the 2023 general elections.
The state’s Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Ayiba Duba, disclosed this in a press statement, warning that the government was ready to seek legal redress against any unverified and not properly researched publication against it.
The Commissioner who also faulted a recent online publication made by one Jackson Ayagbene-Owei, noted that the report was not only false and unvarifiable but a deliberate attempt to tarnish the good image of the state governor, Senator Douye Diri.
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The statement reads in part, “We read with disgust, pain and pity a story titled “the Prosperity Gospel According to Governor Douye Diri” written by a self-styled political analyst with a pseudo name, Jackson Ayagbene-Owei, published in an online news blog reputed for fabrications.
The writer made spurious claims about the programmes, projects and policies of the Goverment without providing any shred of evidence .The state administration recently marked its two years in office and inaugurated a number of projects aimed at improving the lot of the people. This might have gone well with those with mischievous minds. Criticism should be constructive and forwarded with facts and verifiable figures. That’s what democracy is all about.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Governor, Senator Douye Diri and his government is committed to due process, transparency and accountability. If the writer were not permanently in the world of ecstasy, he would be aware that each time a contract is awarded, relevant implementing Ministry informed the public about the cost of such contract.
All the contracts awarded under the watch of this administration are competitive. As such, there is no justification for the unsubstantiated claims and false allegations of corruption against the government.”
The Commissioner, therefore, appealed to journalists to abide by the rules of the profession and cross check their facts before publishing .
“Government will not be distracted by baseless accusations and will continue to provide quality projects and services to our people. One assurance that we give to the peace-loving people of Bayelsa is that your government will continue to work for you” he said.
The Commissioner warned that henceforth government will not tolerate baseless accusations, adding that While government is committed to free speech, accept fair comment and constructive criticism as guaranteed by democracy, those who made baseless and libelous allegations or offer their platforms for profane publications about the government may have to substantiate such in the court of law.
