Kinsmen of Goodluck Jonathan in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have reaffirmed their loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite the internal challenges confronting the opposition party.
The acting Bayelsa PDP chairman, George Turnah, made this known during the party’s local government congress held in Ogbia over the weekend.
Turnah praised members for their large turnout, describing the event as festive and proof that the PDP still maintains strong grassroots support in the state.
He noted that the party has historically contributed to the political advancement of the Ogbia people, particularly by producing Nigeria’s former president.
According to him, although the gathering was only a congress, the level of participation demonstrated that the PDP remains firmly rooted in the area.
Turnah emphasized that the party had given Ogbia significant political opportunities, including producing a deputy governor, governor, vice president, acting president, and ultimately the president of Nigeria.
He stressed that the people of the area would not abandon the party despite its current struggles, adding that the community remains grateful for the political progress achieved through the PDP.
The PDP leader also commended the peaceful conduct of the congress in Ogbia and across other parts of Bayelsa State, noting that reports from all eight local government areas showed the exercise was orderly and calm.
Turnah further praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for monitoring the congress in line with electoral regulations, while also acknowledging delegates who travelled from the state’s 105 wards to their respective local government headquarters to participate.
He also applauded Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, describing him as a national leader within the party who continues to work toward strengthening the PDP as a viable opposition.
In addition, Turnah commended Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri for maintaining a peaceful political environment that allowed the congress and other political activities to take place without disruption.
He expressed gratitude to the governor and other political leaders in Bayelsa for fostering tolerance and political harmony, urging other states to emulate the state’s example.
Turnah concluded by encouraging party members in Ogbia and across Bayelsa to remain committed to the PDP and maintain hope for the party’s future.