Wike Camp Fires Back: ‘We’re Not Backing Down!’ – Arrangements In Full Swing

Governor Diri had expressed security concerns, cautioning that the rally could incite violence and urging stakeholders to refrain from activities that might threaten peace. However, in a swift response, George Turnah, South-South Zonal Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and lead promoter of the rally, dismissed the governor’s concerns.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Kelvin Loveday-Egbo, Turnah confirmed that preparations for the rally were in full swing and would proceed as planned.

Expressing surprise at Diri’s opposition, Turnah emphasized that political engagement should not be influenced by ethnicity or personal interests, reiterating that the Nigerian Constitution guarantees freedom of association and peaceful assembly.

He clarified that the rally, set for April 12, 2025, in Bayelsa, is aimed at mobilizing support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Minister Wike. Turnah denied any allegations of working with former governors to destabilize the state, explaining that his movement, the New Associates, is a grassroots initiative supporting Tinubu’s administration in the South-South region.

Turnah also responded to Diri’s call for Ogbia elders to caution him, reminding the governor that the same elders had once advised against supporting his 2019 gubernatorial bid.

As a serving PDP Zonal Secretary, Turnah questioned the governor’s remarks about his political allegiance and reassured that internal party disagreements in Bayelsa would soon be resolved. He reaffirmed his support for Diri’s administration while maintaining his personal political choices.

A flyer for the rally, obtained by Daily Trust in Yenagoa, revealed that key dignitaries, including Wike, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil) Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, and NDDC Managing Director Chief Samuel Ogbuku, are expected to attend.

Turnah concluded by urging youths, women, and political stakeholders across party lines to participate in the rally, acknowledging Wike and Tinubu’s contributions to Bayelsa and the Ijaw nation.