Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has assured the family of slain 26-year-old Daniel Ayama that the state government will ensure they get justice.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday during a condolence visit to the family at their residence in Kpansia, Yenagoa, the state capital. His visit followed the killing of Ayama, a recent graduate of the Federal University, Otuoke, on May 16 at the INEC Junction in Yenagoa.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri expressed deep sympathy with the bereaved family and said the state government had already launched a full investigation into the incident.
While the family alleged that policemen were responsible for Ayama’s death, the police claimed he was a victim of a clash between rival cult groups.
Senator Diri stated that the Bayelsa State Special Committee on Security and Human Rights Violations had commenced an investigation into the matter. He also directed the State Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) to join the probe to ensure a thorough and impartial inquiry.
“For now, there are two sides to the report of Daniel Ayama’s murder, and the government will not take sides. We are not interested in whether it was the police or a cult-related incident. What we want is the truth,” Diri said.
“I know we have a Commissioner of Police who is responsible and apolitical and who has worked hard to maintain peace and security in the state. But in light of these serious allegations, the police must step aside and allow for an independent investigation.
“This is a case of shooting, and we want our law enforcement agencies to act with strict professionalism. It is unfortunate to hear such an allegation against an institution that is supposed to protect lives and maintain peace.”
Governor Diri also announced that the state government had taken over the medical treatment of three other victims who sustained gunshot injuries during the incident. He prayed for the speedy recovery of the victims and asked God to grant the Ayama family the strength to bear the loss of their son.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr. Smart Ayama thanked the governor and his entourage for the condolence visit. He said while there were initial protests after the incident, the family chose to halt further demonstrations, as they would not bring back their son. However, he called for justice to be served.
Governor Diri was accompanied by the Chief of Staff, Government House, Dr. Peter Akpe; Commissioner for Information, Strategy and Orientation, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai; Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Alfred Nimizigha; Commissioner for Special Duties (Bayelsa West), Mr. Michael Magbisa; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Chief Thompson Amule; and the Technical Adviser on Treasury, Revenue and Accounts, Mr. Timipre Seipulou, among other senior government officials.
