…Party Resolves to Contest LGA Polls, Directs Aspirants to Begin Consultations
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State has reaffirmed its readiness for the 2027 general elections, with the State Chairman, Hon. Chief Alabh George Turnah, MON, Esq., assuring members and supporters that the party is fully prepared and strategically positioned for the forthcoming electoral contests.
Turnah gave the assurance during the 1st Expanded Meeting of Heads of Working Committees in the State, where he also inaugurated the party’s Campaign Budget Committee.
The PDP chairman disclosed that the particulars of all the party’s candidates had been successfully uploaded on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal, with the particulars of its National Assembly candidates already published.
He added that the particulars of the party’s State House of Assembly candidates would be published shortly.
Turnah congratulated the candidates and expressed confidence that the PDP would emerge victorious at the polls, while commending party members for their commitment, loyalty and sacrifices towards strengthening the party.
PDP Welcomes MacIver’s Governorship Ambition
The chairman also welcomed the governorship ambition of the Bayelsa PDP Leader, His Excellency Great Joshua MacIver, following his formal declaration of interest in the 2027 governorship race.
Turnah described the PDP as a platform open to every qualified and well-meaning Bayelsan, stressing that the party would provide a level playing field for all aspirants irrespective of their status or background.
«“Bayelsa is PDP and PDP is Bayelsa. Now that MacIver has taken this bold step, we want to see more people coming forward who also want to contest the governorship position,” Turnah said.»
He, however, ruled out any automatic governorship ticket for MacIver, stressing that the party would remain neutral and committed to a credible and transparent process that would give all aspirants a fair opportunity.
MacIver Approves ₦70m Monthly Support for PDP
A major highlight of the meeting was the disclosure that MacIver had approved a ₦70 million monthly subvention to support the administration and operations of the PDP in Bayelsa State.
According to Turnah, the intervention followed discussions on the party’s critical needs and would assist in supporting party structures and the welfare of officials from the ward to the state levels, as well as national, zonal and other support personnel.
He stressed that the financial support was separate from MacIver’s governorship ambition and would not influence the party’s process for selecting its 2027 governorship candidate.
PDP to Contest Bayelsa LGA Elections
The State Chairman further disclosed that the PDP had resolved to participate in the forthcoming Local Government elections in Bayelsa State.
He consequently called on party members interested in contesting for chairmanship and councillorship positions to come forward and utilise the PDP platform.
Turnah directed intending aspirants to immediately commence consultations across their respective constituencies ahead of the electoral process.
He also urged the Bayelsa State Independent Electoral Commission (BYSIEC) to ensure that the local government elections are free, fair, transparent and credible.
PDP Commends Wike
Turnah expressed appreciation to the National Leader of the PDP, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, CON, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for his continued support and leadership.
He said Wike’s contributions had played a significant role in keeping the PDP active, organised and electorally prepared.
Meanwhile, the party has fixed October 2, 2026, for its 100th State Executive Committee meeting, which will also be used to commemorate Bayelsa State’s 30th anniversary.
The meeting also approved the commencement of the PDP Women Prayer Network, beginning with 100 women who will meet twice monthly. Each participant is expected to receive a monthly stipend of ₦10,000.
Votes of Confidence Passed
The expanded meeting unanimously passed votes of confidence and commendation on Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Great Joshua MacIver and State Chairman Alabh George Turnah.
The party said the commendations were in recognition of their contributions, commitment and leadership towards strengthening the PDP and positioning it for future electoral contests.
The Bayelsa PDP said the latest developments reflect its renewed focus on internal organisation, inclusivity, members’ welfare and electoral preparedness as it intensifies mobilisation ahead of the 2027 elections and the forthcoming local government polls.