Organizers of a rally supporting FCT Minister Nyesom Wike have defied Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri’s opposition, vowing to proceed with the event. Governor Diri had expressed concerns about potential violence during a meeting with Bayelsa Elders and security agencies.
However, George Turnah, the rally’s lead promoter and South South Zonal Secretary of the PDP, stated that preparations are well underway. Turnah dismissed Governor Diri’s fears, emphasizing constitutional rights to freedom of association and peaceful assembly, and asserted that the rally is intended to demonstrate solidarity with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister Wike.
He also denied collaborating with a former governor to destabilize the state, clarifying that his grassroots movement, New Associates, aims to mobilize support for President Tinubu in the South South. A promotional flyer indicates that Wike, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Heineken Lokpobiri, and NDDC Managing Director Samuel Ogbuku are expected to attend the April 12, 2025 launch in Yenagoa.
Turnah reminded Governor Diri that the Ogbia leaders he referenced had previously opposed Diri’s own gubernatorial ambitions, which he ignored. He defended his PDP membership and his right to associate with Wike, noting his history of independent political choices. While acknowledging internal PDP disagreements, Turnah expressed confidence in their resolution and pledged continued support for Diri’s administration. He called for widespread participation in the rally to show appreciation for President Tinubu and Minister Wike.
