The New Associates have pledged to proceed with their planned mega rally in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Despite warnings from Bayelsa Governor, Douye Diri, who stated that he would not permit the event, the group remains resolute in their commitment to honour President Tinubu and Wike.
Speaking on behalf of the group, George Turner, the lead convener of the event and leader of the TNA Bayelsa chapter, stated that the rally aims to make a bold statement of solidarity and appreciation for President Tinubu and Wike, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to Bayelsa State, particularly in the area of human capital development through key appointments.
Turner highlighted that the rally will specifically honour the Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr. Sam Ogbuku, and the Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, as key appointees whose appointments reflect the influence of Tinubu and Wike.
He noted that both Tinubu and Wike have played significant roles in facilitating the appointment of prominent Bayelsans into positions of authority within the Federal Government, thereby empowering credible individuals from Bayelsa to contribute positively to the development of the state, the Niger Delta, and the nation.
“The group will hold a grand inauguration ceremony and mega rally to express its gratitude for the appointment of notable Bayelsa sons and daughters into key positions in the Federal Government of Nigeria,” Turner stated.
“This event is a proof of the group’s appreciation for the President’s and Minister’s efforts in empowering Bayelsa indigenes,” he added.
Turner further emphasized that the inauguration and mega rally will serve as a vibrant celebration of unity, progress, and recognition of the contributions made by Bayelsa’s finest to the nation’s growth and development.
He also affirmed that the intentions of the group are noble, describing the event as a demonstration of the appreciative spirit of the Ijaw people.
