From Seyi Tayese, Yenagoa
The South South Zonal Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Barr. George Turnah, has asked the Presidency and the Inspector General of Police for protection over a threat to his life and that of his family.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday titled “My Life and that of my Family in Grave Danger; We need Protection” and made available to our correspondent via email said, the danger he is facing and that of his family is as a result of his new political alignment with the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike.
According to Turnah, “we have scheduled the inauguration of Bayelsa Chapter grassroots based Pro-Tinubu Movement, the New Associates along with a mega rally in solidarity and appreciation of developmental strides in bayelsa state and the Niger Delta. This event will also celebrate sons and daughters of into positions of trust which is scheduled for Saturday 12 April 2025.
” However, His Excellency Sen. Douye Diri governor of Bayelsa state publicly called me out both during State security and Elders Council meeting labeling me as an enemy of the state and Ijaw nation proposing a rally to honour Mr. President and the FCT Minister on Ijaw soil.
” The governor claimed that the rally was inappropriate because of Mr. President recent proclamation of state of emergency in Rivers state which saw the suspension of an Ijaw governor from office in Rivers state and further alleged that the FCT Minister has insulted Ijaw people, thus suggesting he should not visit, hosted or honoured in bayelsa state”.
Turnah further said, to clarify the situation, he addressed a pres conference to affirmed his commitment to supporting Mr president vision for bayelsa state and the Ijaw nation. Saying, “unfortunately, since redirecting my loyalty towards the FCT Minister and my plan to organize this rally, I have faced threats to my life from the loyalist of governor Douye Diri to extent that one of governor Diri’s supporters, Jonah Paebi, openly boasted on Facebook post that my actions were “death trap” , stating that people should watch out how George Turnah will soon be a thing of the past.
“This a clear indications of assassination plot by the Diri administration, especially since the administration has not condemned such a statement from their supporter. Since this threatening events, my family and I have moved out of our home in Yenagoa and currently taking refuge in an undisclosed hotel. We do not have the financial capacity to sustain this lifestyle or afford the service of security guards.
” The situation is also taking a toll on the mental health of my wife and children. Therefore, I urgently appeal for your intervention for my myself and my family. Given the current political climate and increasing tension within our party dynamics, I respectfully urge you to take appropriate measures to ensure my safety and the safety of those who stand with me, it is of utmost importance that leaders express their beliefs without the fear or intimidation or violence”,the statement read.
