WAD Progressive Grassroots Vanguard Condemns Ekelga Movement’s Statement, Declares Support for Sen. Dickson’s Re-election
By Our Correspondent
YENAGOA — The WAD Progressive Grassroots Vanguard has strongly criticized the Ekelga Movement for Political Fairness over a recent press statement it issued regarding the 2027 Bayelsa West National Assembly elections. In a swift response released by Hon. Wilson Ayakpo Dauyegha, the group described the Ekelga Movement’s statement as “misleading,” “divisive,” and “aimed at inciting the peace-loving people of Sagbama and Ekeremor against each other.”
The WAD Progressive Grassroots Vanguard expressed profound disappointment over the content of the statement, which it claimed was issued in bad faith. While acknowledging the right of the Ekelga Movement to express its views, the group cautioned against any rhetoric that could undermine the existing harmony between the people of Sagbama and Ekeremor, who have coexisted peacefully long before the creation of Bayelsa State.
The group further dismissed the zoning arrangement being promoted by the Ekelga Movement, branding it as “anti-democratic,” “dangerous,” and “a catalyst for rigging elections.” According to the statement, zoning promotes mediocrity and hinders genuine community development.
Instead, the WAD Progressive Grassroots Vanguard urged the people of Bayelsa West Senatorial District to shift their focus toward electing individuals of proven character, integrity, intelligence, and capacity to deliver democratic dividends.
In a firm show of support, the group hailed the current Senator representing Bayelsa West, His Excellency Sen. Henry Seriake Dickson, describing him as “the most purposeful and impactful senator the district has ever produced.” It praised his consistent advocacy for the Ijaw Nation and his continued commitment to education and human capacity development, including the award of education grants beyond the district.
The group also reminded the public of the Senator’s legacy as former Governor of Bayelsa State, particularly his role in initiating and constructing the Sagbama/Ekeremor Road — a landmark project now benefiting the people of Ekeremor.
“Sen. Dickson is eminently qualified to return to the Upper Chambers of the National Assembly in 2027,” the group stated, listing his extensive public service record, which includes serving as Commissioner for Justice, Attorney-General of Bayelsa State, Member of the House of Representatives, Governor of Bayelsa State, and now a Senator of the Federal Republic.
The group urged the people of Bayelsa West to throw their full support behind Sen. Dickson if he chooses to re-contest in the 2027 Senatorial elections, emphasizing that his leadership and bridge-building capacity are what the district needs at this critical time.
In a final remark, the WAD Progressive Grassroots Vanguard called on Governor Douye Diri to reprimand members of the Ekelga Movement for Political Fairness who are political appointees and academic staff of state-owned institutions. According to the group, such individuals should resign if they wish to engage in partisan politics rather than instigating division within the senatorial district.
“The good people of Bayelsa West and the entire state must reject attempts to sow disunity. Let us focus on unity, progress, and capable representation,” the statement concluded.
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