George Turnah, the South-South Zonal Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Convener of the New Associates movement, has condemned what he describes as political suppression by the Bayelsa State Government.
In an exclusive interview with SYMFONI, Turnah revealed that the New Associates is a national initiative focused on unity, inclusion, and development across all regions of Nigeria. He emphasized the group’s commitment to promoting democratic values, particularly freedom of political association and speech.
Turnah took aim at Governor Douye Diri’s recent decision to halt a planned rally by the New Associates in Yenagoa, the state capital. He labelled the move as a deliberate attempt to stifle opposition voices within the PDP.
“It is unacceptable. When you deny political groups the right to gather peacefully, you are undermining democracy,” Turnah stated.
He went on to describe the action as a double standard, noting that similar gatherings aligned with the governor’s camp had been allowed to proceed unchallenged.
Speaking on the political presence of Minister Nyesom Wike in Bayelsa, Turnah dismissed fears that the former Rivers governor’s visit could spark unrest. According to him, Wike has the right to associate freely and can move within Bayelsa without intimidation or security fears.
“Wike is a respected leader. His presence anywhere in Nigeria, including Bayelsa, should not be politicized,” he added.
The group, which calls itself grassroots-driven, explained that the inauguration event was moved from April 12 to April 26 to avoid clashing with other solidarity events, and to allow for greater participation. A mega rally will follow the inauguration to celebrate what the group describes as the “many good things” President Tinubu has done for Bayelsa people.
Turner pointed to appointments such as Dr. D.D. Watson-Jack as Head of Service of the Federation as a sign that Tinubu appreciates Bayelsa and deserves support in return. “When someone appreciates you, you show appreciation too,” he said.
Despite some concerns from local political leaders, Turner insisted that the rally is not aimed at undermining anyone, nor is it anti-party. “There must be a country before there can be any political party,” he said. “What we’re doing is for the good of Nigeria.”
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He also addressed the controversy over Wike’s past comments about Ijaw leaders, saying Wike was only speaking the truth. “Sometimes, truth is bitter. But his message was simple—live and let’s live,” Turner explained.
The group believes that by standing behind strong leaders like Tinubu and Wike, Nigeria will continue to move forward. “Our country is still growing. It may be slow, but we believe we are moving in the right direction. Nigeria will succeed,” Turner concluded.
The Bayelsa chapter says it is ready to receive Wike at the rally, expressing confidence that he remains widely loved by many in the state.
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