The New Associates group—conveners of the planned April 12th mega rally in support of President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike—shifted the date for their planned rally to 26th April, 2025.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the group’s leader, Barr. George Turnah, on Friday.
According to the group, the date for the rally was shifted to enable “Pro Diri and Pro Tambuwal groups” hold solidarity rallies in support of their respective leaders who have declared intention do so on the same date and at the same venue as the New Associates.
The statement reads below:
“It’s a pleasure to address you this afternoon, especially regarding our preparations for the inauguration of the Bayelsa State Chapter of The NEW Associates.
“This grassroots political movement is committed to rallying support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope administration. We strongly believe that President Tinubu’s success is intertwined with Nigeria’s success, and as citizens, we must support our leadership in achieving this vision.
“As a peaceful organization, we are dedicated to promoting peace, security, and the well-being of all Nigerians. Every single life, whether an Ijaw man or any other Nigerian, is precious and of utmost importance to us.
“In light of recent developments, you may recall that several Pro Diri and Pro Tambuwal groups have issued public notices expressing their intentions to hold solidarity rallies in support of their respective leaders, opting to do so on the same date and at the same venue we have chosen for our program.
“We are inclined to allow them the right and space to hold their events as scheduled, creating an atmosphere that will enable the entire country to witness their capacities and acceptance among the Ijaw people in Bayelsa State.
“As such, we will now hold our inauguration and mega rally on Saturday, 26th April 2025, in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. This decision has been made in deference to notable leaders and fathers of the Ijaw nation who have, for various reasons, reached out to us to consider a shift in date.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Grand Patron, other patrons, matrons, leaders, associates, and the teeming members of The NEW Associates across the state for their unwavering support, encouragement, and solidarity during this time.
“We also extend our gratitude to the people of Bayelsa State and Ijaw nation for their interest and enthusiasm to be part of this mass movement aimed at the liberation of our land and empowerment of our people.
“We ask that we all keep the momentum going as we prepare even more efficiently for a successful outing on the new date.
“Thank you.”
