Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has declared that only a God-fearing person should succeed him, urging individuals aspiring to lead the state to seek God’s approval.

Diri made the remarks on Monday during the state’s 15th Thanksgiving Service at the Ecumenical Centre in Igbogene, Yenagoa.

He said anyone interested in becoming governor should prayerfully seek divine guidance, adding that no individual could overturn a decision approved by God.

“All who want to be governor, go and seek the face of God. Anyone who wants to be governor must be God-fearing. If God said yes, nobody can say no, not even me,” he said.

The governor maintained that Bayelsa had been committed to God and that the Almighty would continue to have the final say in the affairs of the state.

He also called on residents to remain united, tolerant and peaceful, describing these values as essential to the state's development.

Diri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the lives of residents, expressing confidence in its ability to transform the state through sustained development efforts.

He thanked the people for their support over the past six years, saying those familiar with Yenagoa's earlier condition could appreciate the changes recorded in the state.

In his sermon, the guest preacher and former Bayelsa State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Very Rev. Joseph Opelema, spoke on the theme, Called to Be Good Christians and Good Citizens.

Drawing from Matthew 22:15–22, Opelema said Christians had responsibilities both to their faith and society, urging them to demonstrate accountability, justice, prudence, sacrifice and compassion, particularly when occupying public offices.

He lamented that many people attended religious services without consistently practising Christian values in their daily lives.

Opelema also described Bayelsa as richly endowed with natural and human resources, saying its waterways, land and favourable weather could support the development of tourism.

The thanksgiving service featured the unveiling of a book titled Lively Oracle, containing scriptural declarations made by the governor during his morning devotions, alongside musical performances by gospel artistes.