YENEGOA – A senior government official in Bayelsa State has publicly criticised George Turnah over his recent comments against Governor Douye Diri, accusing him of blackmail, disrespect, and political ingratitude.
The statement, issued by Hon. Prince Lucky Alex Youbogha, the Director of Transport at the Bayelsa State Government House, Yenagoa, condemned Turnah’s remarks and alleged actions as politically motivated and damaging to the state’s youth and governance atmosphere.
In the strongly worded message addressed to Turnah, Youbogha expressed deep disappointment in what he described as a calculated attempt to malign the character and leadership of Governor Diri.
He accused Turnah of aligning with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike for personal political gain and using that alliance to launch attacks on Governor Diri, despite previously benefiting from the governor’s goodwill.
Youbogha said Turnah’s new political posture, which he referred to as adopting a “chameleon theory,” reflects a desperate bid for relevance. He claimed that Turnah’s actions are not only politically self-serving but also capable of suffocating the aspirations of young people seeking genuine political involvement in Bayelsa.
The government official stated that Turner had previously enjoyed a positive relationship with Governor Diri, which, according to him, helped strengthen Turnah’s economic standing during difficult times. He alleged that the governor once intervened significantly in Turnah’s personal and family challenges, and as such, Turnahr’s current behaviour amounts to betrayal.
He suggested that the former goodwill extended to Turnah’s had now been repaid with public attacks and misrepresentation, which he described as acts of ingratitude. Youbogha warned that the consequences of such conduct may ultimately affect Turnah’s credibility and influence in the state’s political environment.
While acknowledging Turnah’s right to shift political allegiance, Youbogha emphasised the need for dignity, decency, and character in doing so. He pointed out that politics is a game of interest, but that should not excuse behaviour that disregards past relationships and support. He argued that Turner’s actions lacked conscience and moral direction.
The statement also defended Governor Diri’s leadership style, describing him as a peaceful, receptive, and accommodating leader whose simplicity should not be mistaken for weakness. Youbogha expressed concern over the way individuals like Turnah’s have allegedly taken advantage of the governor’s approachability.
He urged Turnah to reconsider his public conduct and statements, especially those made on national television, cautioning that such remarks could have far-reaching implications. He stated that despite the alleged blackmail and character attacks, the governor remains focused on delivering good governance and would not be distracted by personal or politically motivated criticisms.
Youbogha concluded by reaffirming his support for Governor Diri and his administration, emphasising that Bayelsa’s political environment should not be polluted by actions rooted in self-interest or bitterness.
He called on political actors to show respect and uphold ethical standards in their engagements, especially when they have benefited from the very system or individuals they now criticise.
