A Bayelsa State High Court sitting in Yenagoa has issued an order temporarily halting a planned pro-Nyesom Wike rally, which was set to take place in the state capital on April 12, 2025. The decision was made by Justice I.A. Uzakah, who granted a motion ex-parte in Suit No. BYHC/YHC/CV/133/2025, filed by the state’s Attorney General, Biriyai Dambo SAN. The court’s ruling effectively restrains the organizers, including the NEW Associates and Mr. George Turnah, from conducting any political assembly in Bayelsa State until further notice126.
The rally, aimed at expressing solidarity with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has been met with resistance from the Bayelsa State government. Governor Douye Diri has explained that while his administration supports the right to peaceful assembly, it cannot allow the rally due to concerns about maintaining peace and security in the state. Diri highlighted the ongoing political tensions in neighboring Rivers State, which shares close ties with Bayelsa, and noted that any rally related to the crisis could pose a security risk.
The court’s decision aligns with these concerns, emphasizing public safety as a key factor in its ruling. The matter has been adjourned to April 11, 2025, for further hearing12. The Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Commissioner of Police for Bayelsa State were also listed as defendants in the suit, underscoring the comprehensive approach to ensuring public order12.
