By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
In a striking departure from typical party-line criticisms, the Bayelsa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has openly commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, and the Supreme Court of Nigeria for what it described as their bold defense of democracy in the face of political turbulence, particularly in Rivers State.
Acting State Chairman of the PDP, George Turnah, made the remarks in a statement issued in Yenagoa, praising the trio — alongside other key political figures — for what he called their unwavering stand against what he termed “undemocratic tendencies” threatening Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
Turnah’s comments follow recent rulings and political developments in Rivers State, where a fierce power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his former ally Wike has gripped national attention.
“President Tinubu has shown uncommon courage and political will at a critical moment for our democracy. His intervention, especially after the Supreme Court’s damning observations about the absence of democratic governance in Rivers, reflects the integrity and responsibility expected of national leadership,” Turnah said.
He further hailed the Supreme Court for its role in confronting what he described as “despotic tendencies” in Rivers State governance. “With courageous determination, the Court has reaffirmed its role as a bulwark against impunity. This is a victory not just for Rivers State, but for the entire country,” he added.
Former Rivers governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, was also praised for “fighting to restore democratic sanity,” with Turnah saying Wike’s efforts go beyond personal interests. “This is about citizens who yearn for accountability and transparent leadership,” he noted.
Turnah did not spare words in commending the 27 lawmakers in the Rivers State House of Assembly loyal to Wike. Despite the political storm, he described them as heroes for resisting what he referred to as “the impunity and lawlessness” of Governor Fubara’s administration even at the cost of their own welfare.
He also lauded Senator Samuel Anyanwu and South-South PDP Zonal Chairman Chief Dan Orbih for resisting alleged moves to hijack the PDP structure through undemocratic means. “These men have stood as champions of internal party democracy, challenging powerful interests from within and without,” he said.
While the statement has raised eyebrows within PDP ranks due to its praise for President Tinubu the ruling APC’s leader it also reflects the deep divisions and high-stakes power plays unfolding in Rivers and the broader South-South zone.
Observers say the statement may be part of broader realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with state chapters of major parties beginning to position themselves around issues of governance, party control, and regional influence.