George Turnah, the South-South Zonal Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has alerted top government officials about an alleged plan to harm him and his family.
The alert came through a letter dated April 7, 2025, addressed to President Bola Tinubu, with copies sent to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
The issue started after Turnah, a known supporter of Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, clashed politically with Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri.
Turnah claimed that his open support for Wike and plans to launch the Bayelsa chapter of “NEW Associates,” a grassroots movement in support of Tinubu, have led to threats against him.
A major rally tied to the group is scheduled to hold on April 12.
He stated that certain loyalists of Governor Diri have labeled him a threat, particularly at recent security and elders’ meetings in the state.
He said these statements paint him as an enemy for backing Wike and Tinubu, especially in light of Tinubu’s recent state of emergency decision that affected another Ijaw leader, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.
Turnah also cited a Facebook post made by someone close to the governor, which suggested that his political moves could lead to his downfall.
The post allegedly warned the public to watch out, claiming Turnah would soon disappear from the scene.
Feeling unsafe, Turnah disclosed that he and his family have left their home and are currently hiding in an undisclosed hotel.
He expressed concern over the impact the situation is having on his family’s mental well-being.
He is calling on President Tinubu and security agencies to step in and ensure his safety and that of his loved ones.
According to him, every politician should be free to express their views and organize events without fear of violence or harassment.
This is not the first time Turnah has been in the public eye. In 2022, he was sentenced to four years in prison by a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt over corruption-related charges during his time as Special Assistant at the Niger Delta Development Commission.
However, he avoided jail time by paying a fine.
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