Pandemonium as Gunmen Disrupt Pro-Wike Rally in Bayelsa

Introduction: Tensions erupted during a rally in Bayelsa state, where gunmen disrupted an event organized by loyalists of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The rally, held in appreciation of President Bola Tinubu’s appointments of Bayelsa’s sons and daughters to government positions, took a chaotic turn when gunshots rang out, leading to panic and confusion among attendees.

Gunmen Strike as Rally Begins
The rally, which was coordinated by George Turnah, a well-known figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), took place at the Church of God Mission Camp arena. Attendees had gathered in large numbers, eager to show their solidarity with Wike and celebrate Bayelsa's influence in the current administration.

However, as the event was gaining momentum, gunshots erupted from nearby bushes, causing widespread panic. The attackers, whose motives remain unclear, disrupted the peaceful gathering, leading to an immediate response from security forces.

Quick Response by Security Forces
Security personnel, including officers from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS), rushed to the scene. Their swift intervention was critical in preventing further escalation of the violence. Although there were reports of gunshot injuries, no fatalities were confirmed.

Despite the shock of the disruption, security forces managed to secure the area and began combing the surroundings to ensure that the attackers did not pose further threats.

Background and Rescheduling of the Rally
Originally scheduled for April 12, the rally had been postponed to April 26 due to a scheduling conflict with supporters of Bayelsa's Governor, Douye Diri. The event aimed to express gratitude to President Tinubu and to declare continued support for Wike, who remains a key political figure in the state.

The rally drew significant attention, with attendees arriving early to show their support for both Wike and Tinubu’s administration. The event was seen as a critical demonstration of political solidarity, further emphasizing Bayelsa's role in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Political Reactions to the Disruption
In the aftermath, Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, Secretary of the NEW Associates group and former spokesman for the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), voiced strong concerns. He accused the state government of attempting to sabotage the peaceful rally, highlighting that the event was solely aimed at showing support for President Tinubu and honoring Bayelsa’s contributions to his government. Ekerefe questioned the motives behind the attack, stressing that the rally posed no threat to anyone.

Dr. Pabara Igwele, former Commissioner of Health in Bayelsa, also condemned the violence, describing it as politically motivated. He assured the public that despite the attack, the rally would continue, reinforcing their commitment to peaceful demonstrations of support for President Tinubu and Nyesom Wike.

Rally Resumes Amidst Chaos
Despite the initial disruption, Wike’s supporters refused to be intimidated. The rally resumed after a brief break, with attendees reaffirming their solidarity for both Tinubu and Wike. Their determination to support their leaders, despite the chaotic scenes, showcased the strength and resilience of the political movement in Bayelsa.

Conclusion: The disruption of the rally in Bayelsa has raised concerns about the safety of political gatherings in the state. The political motivations behind the attack remain unclear, but supporters of Nyesom Wike and President Tinubu have made it clear that they will not be deterred by violence.

Stay tuned for further updates as Mercy Buzz continues to monitor the developments in this unfolding story.

Just In: Gunshots from nearby bush disrupt Pro-Wike rally in Bayelsa State pic.twitter.com/GnSqmmk0P2

— Africa Independent Television (@AIT_Online) April 26, 2025

 

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