The High Court of Bayelsa State sitting in Yenagoa has issued a restraining order against associates of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, blocking them from holding a planned mega rally in the state.

The rally, initially scheduled for April 12, 2025, in Yenagoa, was temporarily suspended pending the determination of a Motion on Notice. The court’s decision followed a Motion Ex-Parte granted by Hon. Justice I.A. Uzakah on Thursday in Suit No. BYHC/YHC/CV/133/2025.

The suit was filed by Bayelsa State Attorney General, Mr. Biriyai Dambo, SAN, and lists George Turnah—lead convener of the NEW Associates group—and Minister Wike as the first and second defendants. Also joined in the suit are the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police.

In its ruling, the court barred the defendants, their agents, and supporters from organizing or participating in any political gathering within the state aimed at hosting or celebrating Wike, pending the court’s next hearing.

The matter was adjourned to April 11, 2025, for further proceedings.

The proposed rally, meant to demonstrate political support for Wike, has stirred political tensions. Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has publicly opposed the event, citing potential security risks. Meanwhile, Wike’s supporters maintain that due notification was given to security agencies and insist on moving forward with the event.