Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has reportedly fired 27 of his aides for attending a pro-Tinubu and pro-Wike organized by a political group known as the New Associates.
The rally, initially scheduled for April 12, 2025, in Yenagoa, was intended to inaugurate the Bayelsa State chapter of the group and express appreciation to President Bola Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for appointing Bayelsa indigenes to federal positions .
Governor Diri had previously warned against the rally, expressing concerns that it could destabilize the state’s peace, especially given the political tensions in neighboring Rivers State. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and security in Bayelsa and urged political actors to avoid actions that could incite unrest . 
In response to the governor’s concerns and the potential for political clashes, the New Associates postponed their rally to April 26, 2025. The group’s convener, George Turnah, stated that the decision was made out of respect for notable leaders and to ensure a peaceful environment for their event .
The dismissal of the aides underscores the ongoing political tensions in Bayelsa State, as factions within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and rival political groups vie for influence and control.
