The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has described the lavish celebration of the State’s 30th anniversary amid prevailing hunger, poverty and unemployment as shameful and gross insensitivity to the plight of ordinary Bayelsa people.

The Bayelsa State PDP Publicity Secretary, Hon. Ikaebimo Mark, in a statement, expressed disappointment that while the Bayelsa government rolls out elaborate anniversary festivities, many continue to grapple with severe economic hardship and limited opportunities.

According to Mark, the Bayelsa Tower Hotel, which has been abandoned for 22 years, represents evidence of the state government’s misplaced priorities.

“The Bayelsa Tower Hotel, which has hung over the heart of Yenagoa for 22 years despite the enormous public resources committed to it, has become a monument of disgrace and ridicule to our dear state.

“The continued neglect of this and several other abandoned projects under the present administration, while huge sums of the state’s commonwealth are expended on lavish celebrations, is a disturbing indication of misplaced priorities and reckless disregard for the prevailing economic hardship confronting Bayelsans.’’ Mark said.

Furthermore, Mark noted that people of Bayelsa deserve accountability, economic opportunities, and a government that places a premium on their welfare.

“At 30, Bayelsa deserves more than pomp and pageantry; it deserves accountability, completed projects, jobs, economic opportunities and a government that prioritises the welfare of its people. The PDP therefore urges the government to reflect on the real condition of Bayelsans and redirect public resources and attention from extravagant celebrations towards addressing the pressing needs of the people,” he added.