Diri appeals to striking NDU lecturers, promises concession

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has made a conciliatory gesture to striking lecturers in the state-owned Niger Delta University (NDU), saying the government is willing to make concessions to improve their welfare.

“Let me beckon on ASUU that strikes should be the last resort. I invite them to come back to negotiation. The issues can be amicably resolved.

“The government is willing to ensure that the welfare of lecturers and our workers is prioritised.”

The governor also spoke on the recalcitrance of cattle herders that flout the state’s law against open grazing, warning that the ban is still in force. He directed relevant government officials to ensure that the anti-open grazing law is complied with.

The governor also tasked community leaders to work with state officials to ensure that the law is implemented to the fullest. Diri said the state cannot afford a situation where farmlands are being destroyed by herders, saying Bayelsa is open to all for business but the laws protecting all residents of the state must be obeyed.

The governor also cautioned residents of the state against bush burning, saying there are better ways of farming that do not harm the people and the environment.