Ikuli Appeals to Diri Not to Be Discouraged by Turnah’s Alleged Ingratitude
By Jonah Fubara, YENAGOA – Chief (Hon.) Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli, Technical Adviser to Bayelsa State Governor on Media and Public Affairs, has appealed to Governor Douye Diri to remain focused on his administration’s developmental agenda despite what he described as attempts by former Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) aide, George Alabh Turnah, to discredit the governor.
Ikuli made the appeal while reacting to a recent video released by Turnah, in which the latter reportedly recounted his role during an electoral process at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) collation centre in Ogbia Town.
Describing Turnah’s account as misleading, Ikuli accused him of exaggerating his personal contribution to the electoral process, insisting that its success was a collective effort rather than the achievement of one individual.
The governor’s aide also revisited Turnah’s controversial relationship with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), alleging that the former NDDC official was involved in fraudulent transactions relating to youth empowerment and skills acquisition programmes in the Niger Delta.
Ikuli recalled that many Niger Delta youths, particularly Bayelsans, had initially protested against Turnah’s prosecution but were subsequently disappointed by documents and evidence reportedly presented during the EFCC investigation.
According to him, Governor Diri was among those who extended support to Turnah despite the controversies surrounding his legal troubles.
He alleged that the governor provided Turnah with protection and financial assistance, including money to pursue further studies abroad, but expressed disappointment that the former NDDC aide had allegedly turned against the governor.
“Because of the love that Gov. Douye Diri has for Turnah and other young people, he never wanted the career of this young man to be destroyed,” Ikuli said.
He further alleged that the governor went out of his way to accommodate Turnah during his difficult period and assist him in overcoming the challenges associated with his legal troubles.
Ikuli, who described Turnah’s subsequent criticisms of the governor as an act of ingratitude, said the development was particularly disappointing given the assistance he claimed the former NDDC official had received.
Beyond the controversy, the governor’s aide highlighted what he described as Diri’s disciplined approach to family life and public service, noting that the governor’s children had largely stayed away from political interference and the exercise of undue influence in government affairs.
He contrasted this with what he described as the excesses associated with family members of some former governors, particularly in the areas of political influence, intimidation of public officials and the pursuit of government contracts.
According to Ikuli, the conduct of the governor’s family reflects the values of discipline, humility and restraint which he said Diri has consistently promoted.
He maintained that the governor should not allow the controversy surrounding Turnah to distract him from delivering on his promises to Bayelsans.
“As one of the beneficiaries of the benevolence and goodwill of the Governor, I wish to use this rare opportunity to humbly and passionately appeal to our God-sent Governor not to be discouraged by the actions of this ungrateful fellow,” he said.
“Bayelsans are proud of the good works that His Excellency is doing in the state, and we beg him to remain focused and determined on finishing strong.”
Ikuli’s statement comes amid political exchanges involving key actors in Bayelsa State, with the unfolding disagreements generating reactions within the state’s political circles.
Turnah’s response to the latest allegations was not contained in Ikuli’s statement.
