The Bayelsa State Government has stated that it will not permit a planned rally in support of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, citing security concerns and political tensions in the state.
Governor Douye Diri made this clear while addressing journalists in Yenagoa, emphasizing that his administration is committed to maintaining peace and stability in Bayelsa.
The rally, which was being organized by some political groups and supporters of Wike, was expected to take place in the state capital. However, Governor Diri argued that allowing such an event could trigger political unrest, considering the existing divisions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at both the state and national levels.
Diri, a strong ally of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has often found himself at odds with Wike, who has maintained a different political stance within the PDP. The tension between both factions dates back to the 2023 presidential election, where Wike openly opposed Atiku’s candidacy and later joined the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
The Bayelsa government insists that the decision to block the rally is not targeted at Wike personally but is aimed at preventing any form of violence or disruption in the state. Supporters of Wike, however, have condemned the move, accusing the state government of suppressing free political expression.
As the 2027 elections draw closer, the internal divisions within the PDP and the wider political landscape continue to shape events in Bayelsa and beyond.