Bayelsa State Announces IGR Surge Of N5bn, Condemns Gas Pipeline Vandalism In Ogboinbiri

By Eunice Nnachi*

The Bayelsa State Government has announced a significant boost in its internally generated revenue (IGR), reporting a substantial increase from ₦1.2 billion to over ₦5 billion as of March 2025.

This positive development was unveiled alongside a strong condemnation of the recent vandalism of the Ogboinbiri/Obiobi 24-inch Gas Pipeline in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area.

The information was shared by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku-Obiyai, during the Transparency Briefing for the months of January and February.

Mrs. Koku-Obiyai reiterated the Governor Douye Diri-led administration’s unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and impactful governance in the state.

“This administration is dedicated to keeping the people of Bayelsa informed about the state of our finances and the progress of our developmental projects,” Mrs. Koku-Obiyai stated.

“The significant increase in our IGR is a testament to the hard work and strategic planning implemented by this government. We are committed to ensuring that these funds are utilized effectively to improve the lives of all Bayelsans.”

Mr. Timipre Seipulo, Technical Adviser to the Governor on Treasury and Accounts, attributed the impressive revenue growth to an expanded collection base and the successful implementation of the new minimum wage across the state.

“We have focused on streamlining our revenue collection processes and expanding the tax net to ensure that all eligible entities contribute their fair share,” Mr. Seipulo explained.

“The positive impact of the new minimum wage on the economy is also evident in this significant revenue increase.”

Mr. Seipulo further reported on the state’s financial standing, revealing that Bayelsa had a closing balance of ₦178.9 billion in January, which stood at ₦158.5 billion by February.

He clarified that the difference was due to funds being systematically allocated to ongoing capital projects throughout the state, ensuring their timely completion and ultimately contributing to the overall development and prosperity of Bayelsa.

However, the positive news was shadowed by the government’s strong condemnation of the recent act of vandalism targeting the Ogboinbiri/Obiobi 24-inch Gas Pipeline, owned by Oando Energy Plc.

The incident, which occurred between Angiama and Angiamagbene in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, has been labelled as “economic sabotage” by the Bayelsa State Government.

In a statement released on Friday, Commissioner Koku-Obiyai declared the government’s determination to collaborate with security agencies to apprehend those responsible for the pipeline breach and prevent future occurrences.

“The protection of national assets is not just the responsibility of the government, but a collective duty that requires the participation of every citizen,” she emphasized.

“We urge all Bayelsans to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities around public infrastructure to the relevant authorities.”

The statement highlighted the severe and far-reaching consequences of such destructive acts.

These include significant revenue losses for federal, state, and local governments, hindering development initiatives and impacting crucial public services.

Moreover, the environmental hazards associated with the release of natural gas and petrochemicals pose serious health risks to residents in the affected areas.

The government specifically appealed to the youth of Bayelsa State to refrain from engaging in destructive activities and instead collaborate with the administration to maintain peace and safeguard the state’s infrastructure.

“We understand that some of our young people may be frustrated, but violence and vandalism are never the answer,” Hon. Koku-Obiyai stated.

“We encourage them to channel their energies into productive ventures and to work with us to build a brighter future for Bayelsa State.”

The statement reiterated the Diri administration’s unwavering focus on achieving its prosperity agenda by fostering development and attracting investments through infrastructure protection.

“Our prosperity agenda is predicated on creating a conducive environment for investment and sustainable development,” Koku-Obiyai affirmed.

“We will continue to prioritize the safety and security of our public assets to ensure that we can deliver on our promises to the people of Bayelsa State.

“We urge all stakeholders to work together to ensure the safety of public assets and prevent further acts of sabotage.”

The Bayelsa State Government is calling on all citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activity, and contribute to safeguarding critical infrastructure for the benefit of all.

The government is working closely with security agencies to investigate the pipeline vandalism and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The ongoing efforts to boost IGR, coupled with a commitment to infrastructure protection, underscore the government’s determination to improve the quality of life for all Bayelsans and drive sustainable development across the state.