Amid rising political tension in Bayelsa State, Barr. George Turnah, MON—a prominent chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and lead convener of the pro-Wike NEW Associates movement—has postponed the highly anticipated inauguration and meg rally initially scheduled for this weekend. The rally, aimed at galvanizing grassroots support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and honoring Minister of the FCT, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has now been shifted to Saturday, April 26, 2025.
Speaking at a press conference in Yenagoa, Turnah revealed that the decision to postpone the rally was made in the interest of peace and stability in Bayelsa. He said several respected Bayelsan leaders appealed to him to shift the date in order to prevent possible clashes, as pro-Diri and pro-Tambuwal groups had coincidentally planned rallies for the same date and venue.
“We are a peaceful organization committed to promoting unity, security, and national development. Every Nigerian life—whether Ijaw or otherwise—is important to us. In light of developments, we have decided to shift our rally in respect of other political groups and to allow Bayelsans to witness their capacities and public support,” Turnah explained.
He emphasized that the NEW Associates movement remains focused on supporting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, describing the president’s success as vital to Nigeria’s collective progress. Turnah thanked supporters for their patience and loyalty, stating that the movement is even more determined to host a successful and peaceful event on the new date.
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“As citizens, we must support leadership with sincerity and faith. The enthusiasm we’ve seen from Bayelsans is overwhelming. We’re not backing down; we’re simply being strategic and responsible,” he said.
While addressing journalists, Turnah also responded to questions regarding his recent suspension by the Bayelsa State Working Committee of the PDP. He maintained that he remains the South-South Zonal Secretary of the party and has not been served any court summons relating to the issue.
He questioned the legitimacy of the suspension, citing a recent judgment by the Federal High Court that suggests lower organs of a political party lack the authority to suspend higher-ranking officials.
“No court has suspended me, and the South-South Zonal Committee has already nullified the so-called suspension. It never existed in the first place. Those pushing this narrative are simply abusing party mechanisms,” he said.
Turnah, who is also a lawyer, promised to follow legal procedures if formally served. He criticized what he described as internal party sabotage and insisted that due process must be respected within the PDP’s ranks.
