Gunfire Disrupt Rally Of Pro-Wike Supporters In Bayelsa

Tension ran high on Saturday when gunmen disrupted a rally held by supporters of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), in Bayelsa State.

The rally had just started at Igbogene in Yenagoa when gunshots rang out from a nearby bush, sending attendees running for cover.

After the gunfire stopped, many of the participants returned to the venue, determined to continue despite the scare.

The rally, organized by a pro-Wike group called New Associates and led by PDP chieftain George Turnah, pressed on after the incident.

Top members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from Bayelsa and other South-South states loyal to Wike were also present.

The gathering was meant to show support and appreciation for President Bola Tinubu and Nyesom Wike for helping appoint Bayelsa natives to key positions.

Leading up to the event, Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri had warned that the rally could lead to violence.

However, Wike’s supporters brushed off his concerns and remained determined to hold the rally, which was originally planned for April 11 at the Tombia Roundabout in Yenagoa.

On April 3, a high court in Yenagoa issued an order stopping the rally after the state’s attorney-general, Biriyai Dambo, filed an ex parte motion.

In response, Diri’s supporters organized a separate rally for the same day and location, creating further tension.

To avoid conflict, Wike’s supporters later moved their rally to April 26.

KanyiDaily recalls that Nyesom Wike recently hosted a dinner in the UK for the suspended members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.