Bayelsa State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), George Turnah, has declared that the party is fully prepared for the 2028 governorship election, insisting it remains strong despite recent political realignments in the state.
Turnah made the remarks on Sunday at Elebele Community in Ogbia Local Government Area during the reception of former All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Gabriel Claudius, popularly known as the “One Million Man,” and his supporters into the PDP.
He described Claudius’ return as a major boost to the party’s grassroots mobilisation and urged members to begin preparing early for the next governorship election.
According to him, electoral victory requires commitment, organisation and sustained engagement with the grassroots.
“Politics is not for the weak. It is not enough to say you are popular or that you have supporters. You must continue to work until INEC declares your candidate the winner,” he said.
Turnah dismissed claims that recent political developments would weaken the PDP, maintaining that the party remains well-positioned to retain power in the state.
He said the party had identified key constituencies across Bayelsa and would focus its efforts on securing victory in those areas.
“This is one constituency that means a lot to us, and we will work very hard to win it.
“We are not here to campaign today; we are here to receive our brother, Gabriel Claudius, and his supporters back into the PDP.
“We have the structure, the people and the capacity to win. Victory depends on our preparation,” he said.
The PDP chairman also urged the party’s House of Assembly candidate to maintain her momentum, saying her determination had convinced the leadership that she was prepared for the challenge ahead.
He added that the PDP possesses the experience, structure and capacity needed to win future elections.
Reflecting on his role as the running mate to former Bayelsa State Governor Timipre Sylva in the last governorship election, Turnah said the experience gave him valuable insight into what it takes to secure electoral victory.
He called on party members to remain united and intensify grassroots mobilisation ahead of the official campaign season.
