From Femi Folaranmi, Yenagoa
The proposed mega rally for President Bola Tinubu slated for April 12 in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State is reportedly assuming a new dimension as the convener and Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) South-South zonal secretary, George Turnah, has written a ‘save my soul’ letter to President Bola Tinubu alleging threat to his life.
Turnah, convener of The NEW Associates and ally of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, alleged that his decision to hold the mega rally in Yenagoa had pitched him against some powerful interests in Bayelsa State.
He reiterated that the rally meant to demonstrate his new political alignment with Wike would also serve as an avenue to launch the Bayelsa State chapter of The NEW Associates as a grassroots-based pro-Tinubu movement and also appreciate the president for his developmental strides in Bayelsa State and the Niger Delta region as well as the appointment of notable sons and daughters of Bayelsa State into positions of trust in the federation.
A former Executive Assistant on Public Affairs & Social Orientation to Bayelsa governor, Turner disclosed that he fell out with his former boss following his ideological stance against the plot to unseat President Tinubu in 2027, stressing that a southerner should be allowed to serve out his eight-year term.
According to him, having taken note of the opposition to the rally by Governor Diri and others that believed it was inappropriate on Ijaw land, he had addressed a press conference to clarify issues while affirming his commitment to support Tinubu’s vision for Bayelsa State and the Ijaw nation.
He, however, noted that he redirected his loyalty to the FCT minister and forged ahead with the plans to hold the rally, there have been several threats to his life by those against the rally.
“Since this threatening event, my family and I have moved out of our home in Yenagoa and are currently taking refuge in an undisclosed hotel. We do not have the financial capacity to sustain this lifestyle or afford the services of security guards. The situation is taking a toll on the mental health of my wife and children. Therefore, I urgently appeal for your intervention and protection for myself and 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 can express their beliefs without the fear of intimidation and violence,” the letter said.