PDP Chairman Calls for Urgent Economic Interventions in Bayelsa

George Turnah, the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party in Bayelsa State, stated that the state's increasing economic difficulties stem from poor spending priorities rather than a lack of revenue. He called on Governor Douye Diri to initiate large-scale social intervention programs, including the recruitment of 20,000 youths into the Bayelsa Volunteer and Bayelsa Vigilante schemes, offering a monthly stipend of N150,000.

Turnah estimated that this initiative would cost around N3 billion monthly, which he believes is manageable within the state's financial capacity. He emphasized the need for the government to focus on programs that provide immediate relief, such as paying pension and gratuity arrears, restoring student bursaries, and improving healthcare services.

Turnah also dismissed claims that the 2027 governorship election in Bayelsa was predetermined, asserting that the election would center on the welfare of the people. He announced that an opposition coalition would soon be formed to offer a credible political alternative.