By Samuel Oyadongha
Yenagoa— Politicians in Bayelsa State, yesterday put aside their differences as they converged in Yenagoa to celebrate the 46th birthday of Governor Timipre Sylva.

The Gloryland Cultural Centre in the heart of Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, was filled to capacity as the Governor’s aides and other politicians in the state as well as interest groups jostled for space to identify with the celebrant.

Highlight of the celebration was the inauguration of a foundation for widows, orphans and the poor by Governor Sylva.

In a special lecture to commemorate the occasion, Dr. Steve Ogan, said “having pity on the poor is a divine investment that always yields dividends.”

According to Ogan, there is the need for an urgent commission for widows and orphans.

He noted with sadness that in spite of the presence of many non governmental organisations for widows and orphans, “their funding is often erratic and not sustainable,” adding that it was time for people in position of authority to see the plight of widows, orphans and the poor as a priority.

Ogan also called on government to make conscious efforts to provide for widows and the less privileged in the society through prioritization of expenditure.

“What individuals spend on cosmetics, ice cream, perfumes, cigarettes and alcohol, with government military spending is nothing compared to what is allocated to basic social services,” he said.