TURNAH CONGRATULATES CHIEF OWIL SALBOT ON APPOINTMENT AS PERMANENT SECRETARY, SEEKS END TO KOLO’S MARGINALIZATION

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State - The Zonal Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), South South Zone, and Acting Chairman of the PDP in Bayelsa State, Hon. Barr. Alabh George Turnah, MON, has congratulated Chief Owil Salbot on his appointment as Permanent Secretary in Bayelsa State, describing it as well-deserved and a moment of pride for Kolo Town and the entire Ogbia Kingdom.

In a statement issued on February 27, 2026, and signed by his Media Assistant, Kelvin Loveday-Egbo, Turnah said the appointment was a recognition of Salbot’s years of dedication, competence, and integrity in public service.

He noted that the elevation of the Kolo-born administrator to the prestigious office reflects his hard work and proven capacity to deliver on responsibilities assigned to him.

While urging the new Permanent Secretary to remain a worthy ambassador of Kolo Town and Ogbia Kingdom, Turnah charged him to discharge his duties with diligence, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to the development of Bayelsa State.

The PDP chieftain also expressed appreciation to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, for approving the appointment, describing it as, so far, the only notable reward extended to the people of Kolo and Ward 9 since the Governor assumed office in 2020.

However, Turnah used the occasion to call on the Governor to utilise the remaining years of his administration to adequately reward the people of Kolo for what he described as their overwhelming support during the 2019 and 2023 elections.

He expressed concern that in over six years of the present administration, no state government project has been sited in Kolo Town, noting that there has not been “even a meter of road constructed or any visible infrastructure provided” in the name of the Bayelsa State Government.

Turnah further appealed to the Governor to address what he termed the continued marginalization of Kolo Ward 9, particularly in the area of political appointments. According to him, aside from the Rural Development Authority (RDA) Chairmanship, which he said is statutory and politically zoned to Kolo, no indigene of the community is currently serving on any Board, Parastatal, or Government Agency in a political capacity.

He reminded the Governor of his personal support, sacrifices, commitment, and loyalty at critical moments, pleading that such efforts should not be allowed to go in vain. He added that posterity would ultimately judge leaders based on fairness, inclusiveness, and equitable distribution of development.

Turnah concluded by wishing Governor Diri wisdom, strength, and good health as he continues to lead Bayelsa State, praying for divine guidance in taking decisions that will promote unity, equity, and sustainable development across all communities.