April 11, (THEWILL) – Barr. George Turnah, a prominent chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and leader of the pro-Wike rally in Bayelsa State, has announced the postponement of the inauguration of the state chapter of NEW Associates, a grassroots political movement aimed at rallying support for President Bola Tinubu and honouring the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.
In a press briefing on Friday in Yenagoa, Turnah explained that the rally, initially scheduled for April 12, would now take place on April 26, 2025.
The decision to shift the date, he noted, was made in deference to calls from prominent Bayelsans who advised that the postponement would help maintain peace in the state.
Turnah cited the overlap with rallies planned by pro-Diri and pro-Tambuwal groups for the same venue and time as a key reason for the delay.
He stressed the importance of avoiding potential clashes and ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for all involved.
Turnah stated, “We want to assure all our members and supporters that our commitment to President Tinubu remains unwavering.
“The success of President Tinubu is integral to the success of Nigeria, and as citizens, it is our duty to support his administration’s efforts in achieving the Renewed Hope vision.”
He continued, “As a peaceful organization, we are committed to promoting peace, security, and the well-being of all Nigerians. Every Nigerian life, whether an Ijaw man or from any other ethnic group, is precious, and we stand firm in our belief in national unity and progress.”
Turnah also explained that the postponement was made to accommodate the rallies of other groups supporting different political leaders, with the aim of creating an environment that allows for mutual respect and demonstrates the collective will of the people of Bayelsa.
He said, “We have heard the voices of our leaders and fathers of the Ijaw nation who reached out to us, urging a shift in date to avoid any misunderstandings.
“Therefore, we will now hold our rally on April 26th, 2025, in Yenagoa. We thank the Grand Patron, patrons, matrons, leaders, associates, and the many supporters of NEW Associates for their continued solidarity.”
Turnah also expressed his gratitude to the people of Bayelsa and the Ijaw nation for their overwhelming support for the movement, emphasizing that the rally was aimed at empowering the people and advocating for the liberation of their land.
Regarding his position within the PDP, Turnah reaffirmed his role as the South-South Zonal Secretary, adding that he had not received any court summons related to the cases initiated by the Bayelsa State Working Committee of the party.
He also questioned the legality of the suspension he faced from the Bayelsa State Working Committee, referencing a recent Federal High Court judgment that had dismissed the suspension.
Turnah said, “No court has the power to suspend a party member.
“While a court can review a suspension, no lower organ of the party can suspend a higher-ranking officer. The South-South Zonal Committee of the PDP has already set aside my suspension, meaning it never existed in the first place. I have faith in the legal process, and I will follow due process if I am officially served with any court summons.”
He concluded, “It’s important to clarify that the judgment from Bayelsa State has brought attention to the question of whether lower organs can suspend higher officers of the party, which is a matter that needs to be addressed within the party’s structure.”
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
