Bayelsa PDP approves N20m palace project in Jonathan’s hometown

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The Bayelsa State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has unveiled a N20m palace project for the traditional ruler of Elebele Community in Ogbia Local Government Area as it moves to consolidate support in the home community of former President Goodluck Jonathan ahead of the 2028 governorship election.

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The State Chairman of the PDP, George Turnah, announced the project on Sunday during a reception organised for a former chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Gabriel Claudius, popularly known as “One Million Man,” and his supporters, who defected to the PDP.

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Turnah said the intervention became necessary after party leaders visited the community and found the traditional ruler’s palace in a deplorable condition.

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He disclosed that the party had already approved N20m for the project and directed that construction should begin immediately rather than waiting until election campaigns.

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According to him, the project demonstrates the PDP’s commitment to rewarding communities that have remained loyal to the party over the years.

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He noted that although Elebele is one of the largest and most politically active communities in Ogbia, it had for years received little political recognition until the PDP facilitated the appointment and election of several of its sons and daughters into public offices.

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Turnah recalled that the party produced the community’s first Secretary of Ogbia Local Government Area, secured the election of its representative in the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, who later became Chief Whip, and appointed other indigenes into strategic positions.

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He assured the people that more development initiatives would be unveiled for the community when electioneering activities officially commence.

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The PDP chairman said the event was not a campaign rally but a homecoming for Claudius and his supporters, adding that the party remained committed to restoring political and economic prosperity in the state.

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“We are not going to wait until after the election. We have seen the condition of the palace, and it is not befitting of Elebele. Our leaders have already provided N20m, and work will commence immediately.

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“This is not a campaign rally. We are here to receive our brother and his supporters back to the PDP.

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“Elebele has remained loyal to the PDP, and the community will continue to benefit from that loyalty.

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“The PDP has the structure, the people and the experience to return to Government House in 2028.”

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Speaking at the event, a PDP leader, Great Joshua Maciver, expressed confidence that the party would return to Government House in 2028.

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Maciver urged members to remain united and intensify grassroots mobilisation, saying the PDP possessed the structure, experience and capacity to reclaim key elective positions across Bayelsa.

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He also described Turnah as a courageous leader who had kept the party united despite recent political realignments.

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Earlier, Claudius pledged to work with his supporters to strengthen the PDP and ensure its victory in future elections.

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The event was attended by PDP candidates for the National Assembly, state House of Assembly candidates, party leaders and supporters from across Bayelsa State.

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