Turnah-led PDP Moves to Celebrate Reigneth Awudumu’s Botched Birthday, Calls for Tolerance in Bayelsa Governance

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – The Bayelsa State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to reorganize and host a grand birthday celebration in honour of Ms. Reigneth Awudumu, a social media influencer and party loyalist, whose 26th birthday was marred by a controversial arrest last week.

In a statement issued by the Acting State Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Derri Alasuote Wright, the party described Awudumu as a committed and vibrant member of the party in Ogbia Ward 2, who played key roles during the 2019 and 2023 governorship elections in the state.

Awudumu was arrested on May 17, 2025, following a petition reportedly filed by Mr. John Sambo, a domestic aide to Governor Douye Diri.

Her arrest, which occurred less than 24 hours before her scheduled birthday celebration, led to her being arraigned and denied bail, sparking outrage across political and civil rights circles.

“The arrest and subsequent court proceedings not only disrupted a personal moment for Ms. Awudumu but also raised fundamental questions about civil liberties and the right to free expression in a democratic society,” the PDP said.

The statement further noted that the party, under the leadership of its Acting State Chairman, George Turnah, MON, has resolved to honour Awudumu with a special event to highlight her courage and the party’s commitment to democratic values.

“This event will serve as a tribute to her resilience and a reaffirmation of the PDP’s stance on tolerance, inclusion, and the right to free speech,” the party said.

The PDP also used the opportunity to call on the Prosperity Administration led by Governor Douye Diri to embrace the democratic principles enshrined in the PDP constitution and manifesto.

The party emphasized the importance of fostering open dialogue and respecting divergent opinions rather than resorting to intimidation.

“Democracy thrives on the diversity of opinions, and the Diri-led administration must demonstrate maturity and restraint in handling dissent, especially from young voices like Reigneth’s who are genuinely committed to societal development,” Wright added.

While the party did not disclose a specific date for the rescheduled birthday celebration, it confirmed that details would be announced soon and urged party faithful and the public to join in the show of solidarity.

The development has stirred reactions in the state, with many observers warning against the use of state apparatus to silence critical voices.

Civil society groups have also lent their voices, calling for greater respect for human rights and constitutional freedoms in Bayelsa.

As the political atmosphere continues to heat up ahead of future electoral contests, the PDP’s public support for one of its own signals a deeper concern over the direction of governance and internal party discipline in the state.

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