Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating illicit drug activities and related crimes, warning that more demolitions of identified drug dens will follow across Yenagoa and other parts of the state.
The governor issued the warning during the 42nd State Security Council meeting at Government House, Yenagoa, while discussing the recent demolition of a notorious drug hideout known as Aboki Quarters in Yenizue-Gene.
The operation, carried out by a coordinated team of security agencies, was approved by Diri after receiving reports on the location’s criminal activities.
“I commend the service commanders for the swift and decisive operation at the illicit drug centre at Yenizue-Gene.
”This government will not tolerate shanties where drugs endanger our youths,” Governor Diri said, noting that displaced occupants had moved to a nearby site and directing security agencies to monitor it closely.
He further clarified that the crackdown is not targeted at non-indigenes, emphasising that Bayelsa remains one of Nigeria’s safest and most welcoming states for residents and businesses.
Diri also condemned recent violent clashes between rival cult groups that resulted in three deaths, directing authorities to apprehend those responsible.
The meeting included a briefing from Gill Lever, Deputy High Commissioner of the British High Commission, on the ongoing Brighter Futures programme, a three-year crime prevention initiative operating in Bayelsa and three other states.
The programme focused on reducing youth involvement in drugs and cultism while equipping them with vocational skills for self-sustaining livelihoods.
Gill Lever commended the Bayelsa government for prioritising security and youth empowerment, noting that over 200 youths have been trained and provided with tools to engage in productive work.
The Commissioner for Youth Development, Alfred Nimizigha, reiterated that the programme has successfully targeted agriculture and skill acquisition, praising the governor’s support for surpassing expectations set by the British partners.
Diri’s directive signals a sustained campaign against drug dens and criminal enclaves, combining law enforcement with youth development initiatives to safeguard communities across Bayelsa.
