The Acting Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bayelsa State Chapter, and South-South Zonal Secretary of the party, Barr. George Turnah, on Saturday, June 21, 2025, received a grand reception marked by intense solidarity and hospitality from his maternal kinsmen in Upata Kingdom, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Turnah, who was in Upata to grace the opening ceremony of the 2025 Traditional Wrestling Season, was warmly welcomed by a jubilant crowd comprising elders, women, youths, and traditional rulers. The event, held in Edeoha Town—his mother’s ancestral home—was also attended by his wife, Mrs. Jennifer Turnah, and members of the PDP Bayelsa State Caretaker Committee.
Sources disclosed that the community rolled out the drums in honour of their illustrious son, whose maternal roots are deeply embedded in Upata heritage. His arrival sparked an outpouring of affection, with chants, dances, and cultural performances heralding his homecoming.
The Traditional Wrestling Season, an age-old cultural festival revered for its symbolism of strength, unity, and communal pride, drew dignitaries and cultural enthusiasts from across Rivers and Bayelsa States. Wrestling bouts, traditional music, and dance displays featured prominently, underlining the Upata people’s commitment to preserving their rich heritage.
As a prominent advocate of indigenous culture and values, Turnah’s participation in the event was hailed as a reaffirmation of his respect for tradition and his enduring connection to his maternal roots. Community observers noted that his presence underscored his efforts to promote unity, cultural continuity, and inter-state cooperation across the Niger Delta.
In a high point of his visit, Turnah paid homage to the paramount ruler of the Upata Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Eze (Dr.) Felix Enene Otuwarikpo JP, Eze Igbu-Upata III. During the visit, he restated his commitment to the socio-cultural advancement of the Upata people and pledged continued support for development initiatives that promote peace and integration in the region.
In an emotionally-laden moment, the PDP chieftain also inspected the mausoleum of his late mother in Edeoha, ahead of her 5th-year memorial anniversary slated for July 17, 2025. Scores of community members joined him during the solemn visit, offering prayers and tributes in a scene that reflected deep communal bonds.
The visit culminated in a spontaneous celebration, especially by women and youth who broke into songs and dances, extolling Turnah’s humility, achievements, and consistent support for the community and the PDP. Many described him as a bridge-builder whose life exemplifies respect for cultural values and loyalty to both maternal and paternal heritage.
The event not only celebrated tradition but also reinforced the political goodwill enjoyed by Barr. Turnah within and beyond Bayelsa State, solidifying his standing as a unifying figure committed to cultural inclusivity and regional integration.