The Acting Zonal Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) South-South, Barrister George Turnah, has refuted allegations of betraying his political benefactor, Governor Douye Diri, insisting that he has done nothing wrong to warrant an apology.
Turnah made this assertion on Tuesday March 3rd 2025 in Yenagoa while responding to comments by the Chief Whip of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Hon. Gabriel Ogbara, who reportedly sought to use Turnah’s name to gain favour with Governor Diri.
Earlier, political leaders from Ogbia Local Government Area issued an apology to the governor and the PDP over the actions of the George Turnah who was suspended.
Ogbara, who represents Ogbia Constituency 3, had on Monday, March 2nd during the PDP State Executive Council (SEC) meeting at the party's secretariat, also publicly apologized to the governor and the party for what he claimed were Turnah’s political actions.
In a swift reaction, Turnah rejected the notion that he had fallen out with the governor, emphasizing that his political stance and loyalty remain unwavering.
He described Ogbara’s apology as unnecessary and self-serving, dismissing any claims of wrongdoing or betrayal.
"I supported the Governor in both his first and second-term elections and maintained my integrity even as the PDP agent in Ogbia LGA during the last election.
“I did everything necessary to support Governor Diri when it mattered most. At this point, I have nothing left to contribute or offer to Governor Diri, so notions of betrayal are baseless. In fact, I feel I am the one being betrayed,” Turnah stated.
He strongly criticized Ogbara’s actions, describing them as political opportunism aimed at securing personal benefits rather than promoting party unity. Turnah warned against what he termed sycophantic behavior, urging party members to remain truthful and dedicated to strengthening the PDP in Bayelsa.
He further suggested that Ogbara should focus on his ambitions for a third term without resorting to using his name as leverage.
“If Hon. Ogbara wishes to seek another term, he should do so with dignity rather than exploiting my name for his political convenience,” he asserted.
Turnah reiterated his commitment to the PDP and the development of Bayelsa State, stating that his political principles remain rooted in transparency, loyalty, and service to the people.
