From Seyi Tayese, Yenagoa
In a major move aimed at deepening justice, equity, fairness, and political inclusion within the Bayelsa East Senatorial District, leaders and stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Ogbia, Nembe, and Brass Local Government Areas have unanimously resolved to zone the party’s 2027 Senatorial ticket to Brass Constituency II and the 2031 ticket to Nembe Constituency II for a single four-year term, respectively.
The landmark resolution was reached during a strategic meeting of party leaders and stakeholders held at the Yenagoa residence of the State Chairman of the PDP, Hon. Barr. Alabh George Turnah, MON, and presided over by the Bayelsa East Senatorial District Vice Chairman of the party, Hon. Andy West Majors.
According to the stakeholders, the decision was taken in the overall interest of peace, unity, inclusion, and balanced political representation across the Senatorial District, noting that by 2031, all State Constituencies within Bayelsa East would have effectively produced a Senator under the existing rotational arrangement.
The leaders explained that the Senate seat rotation within the district has followed a stable and divinely guided progression since 1999, beginning with Senator Melford Okilo from Ogbia Constituency I, followed by Senator Inatimi Spiff of Brass Constituency I, and Senator Nimi Barigha Amange of Nembe Constituency I.
The rotation later returned to Ogbia with Senator Clever Ikisikpo of Ogbia Constituency III, then moved to Brass through Senator Ben Murray-Bruce of Brass Constituency III, and subsequently to Nembe with Senator Degi Ereminyo of Nembe Constituency III. The current occupant of the seat, Senator Benson Agadaga, is from Ogbia Constituency II.
The stakeholders therefore maintained that in line with the principles of justice, equity, and fairness, it is only proper for Brass Constituency II to produce the party’s Senatorial candidate in 2027, while Nembe Constituency II takes its turn in 2031.
They further resolved that beginning from 2035, the Bayelsa East Senatorial ticket of the PDP shall no longer be subjected to zoning or rotation, stressing that competence, performance, capacity, and the ability to provide effective representation would henceforth determine who emerges as candidate of the party.
According to them, the decision signals the beginning of a new political era anchored on merit, practical development, and quality representation capable of advancing the collective interest of the people of Bayelsa East Senatorial District.
The stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to the unity and growth of the PDP in Bayelsa East and pledged continued support for the leadership of the party under Hon. Barr. Alabh George Turnah, MON, whom they commended for promoting inclusiveness, political stability, and purposeful leadership across the state.
