New Associates Postpone Bayelsa Inauguration Rally to April 26 Amid Clashing Events

The Bayelsa State Chapter of The New Associates has announced a change in the date of its planned inauguration and mega rally, originally scheduled for Saturday, April 12, 2025. The group, a grassroots political movement aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, will now hold the event on Saturday, April 26, 2025, in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

This decision was revealed during a press briefing held by the leadership of the Bayelsa State Chapter. According to George Turnah, MON, the Lead Convener and Leader of the Bayelsa State Chapter of The New Associates, the shift in date was necessitated by the scheduling of parallel political events by groups supporting other political figures.

Turnah noted that Pro-Diri and Pro-Tambuwal groups had announced plans to hold solidarity rallies on the same date and at the same venue initially selected by The New Associates for their program. To avoid any potential conflict and maintain a peaceful atmosphere, the group resolved to postpone their event.

He emphasized that the decision to reschedule was made in consultation with respected leaders and elders of the Ijaw nation who had reached out with appeals for a peaceful resolution. In a gesture of respect, The New Associates agreed to step aside for the previously announced rallies to proceed as scheduled.

The New Associates is positioning itself as a pro-Tinubu grassroots movement aimed at mobilizing public support for the President’s agenda. The group is also focused on promoting peace, security, and the general well-being of all Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or regional background.

Turnah stressed that the group’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and national unity remains steadfast. He reiterated that every life—Ijaw or otherwise—is valuable, and their movement will not be party to actions that could compromise harmony or trigger unnecessary political tension.

The postponed rally, now set for April 26, is intended to mark the formal inauguration of the Bayelsa State Chapter of The New Associates. It will also serve as a platform to mobilize support for Tinubu’s administration in the Niger Delta region. Turnah called on members and supporters to remain motivated and continue preparing for the event with even greater energy and enthusiasm.

He also expressed gratitude to the group’s patrons, matrons, members, and the general public for their continued support and understanding. According to Turnah, the postponement should not be seen as a setback but rather as an opportunity to make the inauguration a bigger success.

The New Associates stated that the people of Bayelsa State and the broader Ijaw nation have shown great interest in the movement. The group believes that this upcoming rally will not only demonstrate public support for President Tinubu’s policies but also symbolize the empowerment of the region’s citizens.

Turnah urged supporters across Bayelsa and beyond to remain engaged and committed to the group’s vision of a liberated and prosperous Niger Delta. He also reaffirmed the group’s belief that the success of President Tinubu’s government is directly linked to the progress and unity of Nigeria as a whole.

With the new date now set, preparations for the event are expected to intensify in the coming days. The rally in Yenagoa is anticipated to draw significant attention from political observers, supporters, and residents eager to witness the formal launch of a movement that claims to represent grassroots support for the current federal administration.

In closing, Turnah encouraged everyone involved in the movement to maintain the momentum and approach the rescheduled rally with renewed determination. He also appealed for continued cooperation and understanding among all political actors in the state, stressing that peaceful engagement is essential for development.

The New Associates Bayelsa State Chapter remains confident that its April 26 inauguration will reflect the group’s strength and widespread acceptance, especially among the Ijaw people. The leadership says the rally will serve as a powerful demonstration of the group’s dedication to national unity and regional empowerment.