In a significant spiritual and political declaration, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has made a solemn vow to finally end the prolonged electricity crisis plaguing the state. The governor promised residents steady power supply by the end of January 2026, marking a potential end to an era of darkness that has lasted for nearly three decades.
A Sacred Pledge at the Mgbidi Crusade
Governor Diri made this commitment on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at the high-profile Mgbidi 2026 crusade organized by The Lord’s Chosen Charismatic Revival Ministries Worldwide. The event, themed “What God has determined shall be done,” was held at the Chosen International Secondary School Complex in Mgbidi, Imo State.
Before a massive congregation and in the presence of the church's General Overseer, Pastor Lazarus Muoka, Governor Diri delivered a message of hope. He stated that Bayelsans would soon cease their dependence on the unreliable national grid, popularly known as NEPA. "Bayelsa State had been in darkness for about 29 years," Diri revealed, urging the people to rejoice as God had given them a governor determined to deliver Independent Power Plants (IPP).
The Path to Energy Independence
Governor Diri provided concrete details on his administration's efforts to tackle the power deficit. He disclosed that the state government had already procured eight gas turbines, with six successfully installed and the remaining two awaiting installation. This infrastructure forms the backbone of the planned Independent Power Plants.
"Bayelsa is a state blessed with oil and gas. We have so much gas, but yet we are in darkness," Diri remarked, highlighting the irony of the state's situation. He emphasized that light is fundamental for development, affecting every aspect of daily life and economic activity.
Beyond power, the governor outlined other developmental projects, including the construction of a new city called New Yenagoa, complete with dual carriageways, and a new stadium with a capacity for 30,000 people. He connected these infrastructural strides to divine support, asserting that when a leader does what the people need, God's backing is assured.
A Governor's Grief and Faith
The governor's appearance at the crusade was deeply personal, coming after a period of profound state mourning. Governor Diri reflected on the tragic passing of his deputy, His Excellency, Senator Dr. Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on December 11, 2025, which he described as ending the year on "a very bad note." This loss followed the death of the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs earlier in the year.
Diri shared that the grief almost prevented him from attending the crusade. However, he resolved that "affliction shall not rise a second time" and that strengthening his faith through fellowship was the way to ensure it. He expressed immense gratitude to Pastor Lazarus Muoka for his pastoral support during that difficult time, noting that the General Overseer persistently sought him out to offer prayers and reassurance.
In a powerful display of humility and reverence, Governor Diri prostrated on the pulpit before Pastor Muoka. This act symbolized his acknowledgment of God's grace over his life and the state, and his deep appreciation for the spiritual leader.
In his closing remarks, Governor Diri called on fellow politicians to remember their purpose is to serve the people, and that good performance earns public support. Pastor Lazarus Muoka, in turn, asked the congregation to pray for the governor's administration to finish its work successfully.
