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Tag: Ijaw

  • Constitution review: Ijaws demand for 2 additional States

    Constitution review: Ijaws demand for 2 additional States

    The Ijaw National Congress (INC) worldwide has proposed the creation of two additional Ijaw States. The proposed States, the INC said, should be carved out from Edo, Delta, Ondo, Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.

    Prof. Benjamin Okaba, Global President, INC, made the proposal in his memorandum at the National Assembly Constitution Review Public hearing for South South Zone.

    Okaba proposed that the two states, Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States be carved out of Edo, Delta Ondo as well as Rivers and Akwa Ibom, respectively.

    “We reaffirm our demand for the creation of two additional homogeneous Ijaw states; Toru-Ebe comprising Ijaws in Delta, Edo and Ondo and Oil Rivers State made up of Ijaws in Rivers and Akwa-Ibom

    “We also propose additional 33 local government areas for Bayelsa State, which currently has just eight.

    “The demand for the creation of the proposed Toru Ebe State is aimed at addressing the long-standing yearnings and aspirations of the people for justice, peace, stability, self-determination and development.

    “The territorial configuration of the proposed Toru Ebe state includes only ljaw clans in the present Delta, Edo and Ondo states.

    “These distinct yet culturally homogeneous clans of the Ijaw ethnic nationality and customary owners of all land living in a geographical contiguous territory of their own and have been deliberately balkanised into different political and administrative units in the country are the ones demanding for the creation of the proposed state,” he said.

    He noted that the oil revenue from the Ijaw areas in the three states accounted for the largest revenue accruing to the National Economy.

    According to him, in spite of the receipt of the 13 per cent Derivations Revenue by Edo, Delta, and Ondo, the Ijaw areas which are mineral producing have been denied any meaningful development.

    “Modern infrastructure social services such as schools, hospitals, portable water are near absent in Ijaw communities especially in Edo.

    “Ancient traditional tools are easily denigrated and denied office recognition and patronage. With the political fragmentation in place, it has been impossible for an ljaw man in Edo to become a mere ward councillor.

    “Because of the neglect there is a high level of rural- urban migration leading to the loss of indigenous cultural heritage.”

    The INC global president said that however, the Ijaw as inhabitants of this marshy and swampy terrain were blessed with abundant natural resources including oil and natural gas.

    He added that the proposed state with a population of about 2.7 million people have natural landscapes with beautiful beaches and lengthy coastline which could be annexed into a blue economy and tourism that would make it economically viable.

    “We also propose Oil Rivers State that comprises Ijaws in Rivers and Akwa Ibom. This area remains the most naturally blessed but environmentally degraded in the entire world, with massive oil explodes, gas flaring threatening the very survival of the people.

    “Just like our counterparts in Edo, the Ijaws especially in Akwa Ibom are left with no basic infrastructure, electricity, and healthcare services.There is no meaningful state and federal government infrastructure in these Ijaw communities.

    “Due to the long period of fragmentation many Ijaw communities face cultural extinction with some losing their native language and their traditions. With the creation of the Oil Rivers state, the rich heritage and environment of our people can be resuscitated.

    “The proposed Oil Rivers state with Isaka Town, located in the northern part of Okrika Local Government Area as capital is endowed with abundant natural and human resources such as vast mangrove forests, rich fishery and agricultural potentials, palm oil industry, tourism potentials, natural harbours and oil and gas resources (with over 30 major oil and gas fields, making it economically viable),” he stressed.

    Okaba further proposed an additional 33 local government areas for Bayelsa.

    According to him, Bayelsa’s contribution to Nigeria’s GDP is significant, thanks to its rich human and natural resources. As one of the largest oil and gas producing states in Nigeria, the state accounts for a substantial portion of the country’s oil production, estimated to be around 35-45% as of 2022.

    “In terms of GDP, the state’s contribution stands at $4.3 billion, with a GDP per capital of $1,773, according to 2020 rankings.

    “The state’s economy is largely driven by the petroleum industry, with crude oil and natural gas being major contributors. The state therefore, has a critical role in the actualisation of Mr President’s projection to meet up with OPEC quota of 2.06 barrels per day.”

    He said that it was however, worthy to note that in spite of the state’s significant contribution to the nation’s GDP, land and river mass and huge potentials for steady growth and development, it currently had only eight local government areas, which include Brass, Ekeremor, Kolokuma/ Opokuma, Ogbia, Nembe, Sagbama Southern Ijaw and Yenagoa.

    “We all know that eight LGAs for Bayelsa is a case of injustice in many ramifications in terms of federal resource allocation and fair representation.

    “Our other concerns include protection and remediation of its environment, federal resource contribution through resource control and payment of tax, true federal constitution with no unitary coloration.

    “We also want the re-integration of Ijaws vide the wholesale prosecution of the Ijaw struggle for self-determination which has lasted centuries.
    Improve the quality and quantity of representation,” Okaba further said.

    He also called for the restoration of true federalism, including fiscal federalism, Resource Control (100 per cent derivation) and devolution of power.

    He further proposed the alteration of Section 3 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as Amended); Establishment of Regions, and proposed 10 federating units (federating states) by way of readjustment of the well-known and accepted six geopolitical zones in the country.

    Meanwhile, the House of Representatives Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution has disclosed that it received 46 formal requests for the creation of new States.

    This, the House said, is alongside 117 demands for new local government areas across Nigeria. The proposals, submitted by various interest groups, span all six geopolitical zones.

  • Caution Wike over comments on Ijaw people – INC to Tinubu

    Caution Wike over comments on Ijaw people – INC to Tinubu

    The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to call the FCT Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike, to order over his comments on the Ijaw.

    The INC was reacting to alleged comments credited to Wike in which he said the Ijaw people ”were a minority of minorities in Rivers and other South South States except Bayelsa”.

    In a statement in Abuja on Friday, Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, National Publicity Secretary INC, said that the congress had taken note of the FCT minister’s remarks.

    ”We will continue to maintain peace and stability, as we call on President Tinubu to caution him and redirect his focus to his ministerial duties.

    “The INC remains committed to preserving the harmony enjoyed by all in the Niger Delta region.

    “We have taken note of the recent remarks made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

    “Given his eight-year tenure as governor of Rivers we expected a more informed understanding of the state’s history,” the INC said.

    For the record, the INC said that the Ijaw people are the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria, with over 40 million people, and the oldest tribe in Nigeria, as documented in history.

    “They are the largest ethnic group in Rivers with eight local government areas, and also not a minority in Delta.

    “The Ijaw have consistently advocated for fairness and equity in the Niger Delta region and the South-South, and we will not be swayed by individual attempts to provoke us,” Oyakemeagbegha said.

  • Rivers Ijaw group warns INC not to foment trouble

    Rivers Ijaw group warns INC not to foment trouble

    A group under the umbrella of Rivers Ijaw PeoplesCongress, RIPCO has called on Ijaw National Congress, INC to immediately stop fueling the crisis in Rivers State.

    RIPCO made this call in a prees briefing in PortHacourt at the weekend.

    In a press statement jointly signed by Senator George Thompson Sekibo, leader, Hon Rowland Sekibo, Director General and Hon Erastus Awortu, Secretary .

    The group noted its attention has been drawn to several misguided and inflammatory statements recently made in both the print and electronic media.

    “These statements threaten chaos and unrest in Rivers State, particularly in response to the Supreme Court’s judgment on the ongoing Rivers State crisis.

    ” While RIPCO ordinarily would not engage in public dispute over the opinions of other Ijaw people, we feel compelled to clarify some points and correct the misconceptions being propagated.

    “Firstly, it is important to note that every citizen is constitutionally entitled to express their views and opinions. However, we must remind everyone that when two parties present their case before a court of competent jurisdiction, there are only two possible outcomes: either the judgment will favour one party or the other.

    “The Supreme Court, the highest court in the land, has rendered its decision, bringing to an end the legal conflict that has disrupted the peace and stability of Rivers State for far too long.

    “We express our sincere gratitude to God for this resolution, and we urge all Rivers people to support and encourage the implementation of the judgment as handed down by the court.

    “However, it is deeply troubling that certain individuals, including Professor Benjamin Ogele Okaba, the President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), among others, have resorted to threats of violence and destruction, including targeting vital oil and gas infrastructure in Rivers State and the wider Niger Delta region.

    “These calls for violence are not only reckless but also profoundly misguided. It is one thing to disagree with a judicial decision; still, it is entirely different to resort to destructive and unlawful actions that threaten the lives and livelihoods of innocent people in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.

    “We wish to remind those making these unguided utterances that we live in a democratic dispensation governed by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which enshrines the rule of law.

    “The Supreme Court has the final authority to interpret the Constitution and the country’s laws, and its decisions are final and binding on all.

    “Those who call for war, destruction, and civil disobedience should be reminded that Rivers State belongs to all its people, and no individual or group has the right to impose their will through violence and terror.

    “In light of these developments, RIPCO feels it is necessary to provide the following clarifications:
    1. The Supreme Court Judgment is Not Based on Ethnicity
    The Supreme Court’s judgment was not based on ethnic considerations or the notion of the Ijaws opposing another ethnic group. It was rendered in strict accordance with the Constitution and the rule of law. This was a judicial intervention in a legal dispute, not an ethnic or political contest. It is crucial that we all understand and respect the supremacy of the law.

    2. Rivers State is a Multi-Ethnic State
    Contrary to the narrative promoted by certain individuals, Rivers State is not a monolithic Ijaw state.

    “It is a vibrant and diverse multi-ethnic entity, home to the Ijaws, Ikwerre, Ogonis, Oyigbo, Eleme, Ogba, Etche, Egbema, Ndoni, Ekpeya and many others.

    “The diversity among the people in Rivers State is its strength, and we must all embrace this diversity for the collective progress and peace of our state. We should not permit these misguided and selfish self-proclaimed Ijaw leaders to take the law into their own hands simply because the state is currently governed by an Ijaw son who is acting in a similar manner.

    3. The Issue of Impeachment Requires a Political Solution
    The recent fears regarding the impeachment of the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Sir Siminalaye Fubara, raised by Professor Benjamin Okaba and his cohorts, are unfounded and premature, as the House of Assembly has not declared such an intention.

    “However, even if the House were to express this, it is not an issue that should be resolved through threats of violence or disruption. Instead, it demands a political resolution that must be sought through constitutional and lawful means. If there are legitimate concerns about governance or the implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgment, these should be addressed within the established legal and political framework, rather than through inflammatory rhetoric and unlawful actions.

    4. The Unconstitutionality of External Interference
    At the onset of this crisis, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, anticipating the outcomes, intervened. At that time, Professor Okaba and his Cohorts criticised the intervention, labeling it unconstitutional.

    The President’s intervention at that time was criticised for overstepping the bounds of the Constitution. We must now ask: Would it be constitutionally appropriate for the President to intervene again in a matter where the Supreme Court, an independent branch of government, has already made its final decision?

    “It is essential for those advocating for the President’s intervention to reverse or override the Supreme Court’s ruling to understand that it would be a direct challenge to the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.

    5. Suppose the Supreme Court Judgment had Favoured Governor Sim Fubara
    It is our belief that if the Supreme Court judgment had favoured the Governor and his team, the Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule and his team would have succumbed to wise counsel and vacated their seats to allow peace and stability reign in the state. Thus, Governor Sim Fubara attempt at further escalating the crisis is an executive rascality beyond the imaginations of wise counsel.

    Governor Siminalaye Fubara should note again that the decision of the Supreme Court is final and binding.

    6. Professor Benjamin Okaba Should Advise Governor Fubara to Implement the Judgment and Not to Disrupt the Peace of Rivers State Further
    In the spirit of peace and stability, we, members of the Rivers Ijaw Peoples’ Congress and fellow Ijaw brothers with Professor Benjamin Okaba do implore him and his Co-travellers to advise His Excellency Governor Sir Siminalaye
    Fubara to promptly implement the Supreme Court’s judgment.

    Only through the full execution of the court’s decision can peace and order be restored in Rivers State. The people of Rivers State deserve nothing less than the swift and transparent implementation of the rule of law.

    7. The General Public Is to Note That Professor Benjamin Okaba and His Co-Travellers Are Not Speaking for all Rivers State Ijaw People .

    The general public is invited to note that Professor Benjamin Okaba and his associates, who are threatening with hell and brimstone in Rivers State, do not speak for all Rivers Ijaw people, as there is no other formidable Ijaw group besides the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress. Therefore, the public is advised to disregard these misguided and provocative remarks and comments from them.

    8. RIPCO Supports the Supreme Court Judgment
    As a responsible and law-abiding organisation, the Rivers Ijaw Peoples’
    Congress stands firm in supporting the Supreme Court’s judgment. We believe that this judgment is a critical step towards bringing stability, peace, and justice to Rivers State.

    We commend the Supreme Court for its wisdom in resolving this matter, and we encourage all citizens to accept the judgment and work together for the betterment of our state.

    9. RIPCO Congratulates the Speaker and twenty-six members of the Rivers State House of Assembly
    We also wish to congratulate the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, DSSRS, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and all twenty-six members of the Assembly for their unwavering dedication to upholding the law and promoting peace in our state. Their commitment to governance and the rule of law is commendable, and we stand with them in their efforts to ensure the full implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgment.

    10. We Are Committed to the Security and Safety of Our Commonwealth As law-abiding citizens of Nigeria, the members of RIPCO are committed to safeguarding the peace, stability, and prosperity of our state and country. We will continue to support the federal government’s initiatives to maintain law and order. We, the Rivers Ijaw Peoples’ Congress members will not hesitate to stand with the security agencies to fish out any individuals or groups that aim to undermine our collective well-being through violence, illegal activities, or attempts to damage our nation’s oil and gas infrastructure.

    In conclusion, we urge all well-meaning Rivers people to remain calm, law abiding, and supportive of the democratic process. The Supreme Court has spoken, and it is our duty as citizens to respect its decision. We must all work together for the continued development and unity of Rivers State, rejecting any actions that seek to divide us or bring harm to our communities.

  • Ijaw elders break silence over Edwin Clark’s death

    Ijaw elders break silence over Edwin Clark’s death

    The Ijaw Elders Forum (IEF) has mourned the demise of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, saying that the voice of the Ijaw people is gone.

    Chief Bukazi Etete, Chairman,  IEF Lagos branch, made the remark in a statement the forum sent to newsmen in Yenagoa, Bayelsa, on Thursday,

    According to him, Clark was a patriot who inspired leaders and served the Ijaw people with courage.

    “Pa Clark was also the foremost leader of the Niger Delta and South-South; he also was the leader of PANDEF and the Southern and Middle belt forum.

    “As if in a conspiracy, he departed this world to the great beyond a few days after his soul mate and co-advocate for minority rights and restructuring, Pa Ayo Adebanjo died.

    “Pa Clark was a fearless advocate for justice and equity in Nigeria,” he said stated.

    The elder forum chairman recalled that the late Clark was concerned about the sufferings and oppression of the Ijaw and the People of the Niger Delta.

    He added that the late Clark did not mince words in speaking truth to power, a strong voice expressing concern about the marginalisation of the Ijaw people.

    The group recalled that the late Clark highlighted the travails of oil exploitation, which had been devastating the environment of the Niger Delta and ravaged the lives of the people.

    “He was a lawyer of great repute, Commissioner of Education in Midwest Region, Federal Commissioner of Information.

    “A Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he left an indelible mark in all his national assignments; Pa Clark has seen it all as an astute politician,”  he said.

    Etete regretted that the late Clark left the world at a time when his strong voice for justice and equity was most needed in Nigeria.

    He added that his experience and wise counsel will be greatly missed, saying that a strong advocate of minority interest and restructuring is gone.

    “The voice of the Ijaw Nation has gone silent; our chief advocate and minority interest defender has gone to the great beyond.

    “We weep as a people for this great loss but we are consoled by the fact that he lived a well fulfilled life as a great national patriot; we are already missing you, our great leader.

    “IEF celebrates the life and times of this great sage and patriot; we are encouraged by the inspirational life he lived and the ideals he stood for.

    “Our condolences go to the family of Pa Edwin K. Clark, the great people of Ijaw Nation and Nigerians at large; may God grant his soul eternal rest,” he said.

  • Clark championed the cause of regional, national unity – Arewa youths

    Clark championed the cause of regional, national unity – Arewa youths

    The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has described late Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, as a towering figure in Nigerian politics and a relentless advocate for the rights of the Niger Delta.

    The President General of AYCF, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, in a statement on Tuesday, extended the group’s condolences to the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta, over Clark’s demise.

    Recall Clark, the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), died on Monday in Abuja, aged 97.

    Shettima, therefore, stated that the AYCF recognised that throughout his illustrious career, Clark served the country with distinction.

    He added that “from his time as Commissioner for Education in the Mid-Western Region to his tenure as Commissioner for Finance and Establishment in Bendel State, he demonstrated a commitment to public service and a passion for the development of his region.

    “At the federal level, Chief Clark continued to make significant contributions to the political landscape of Nigeria.

    “As Commissioner for Information and later as a Senator, he championed the cause of regional and national unity, earning the respect and admiration of his colleagues and constituents.”

    The arewa youth leader said that beyond Clark’s political career, he was a leading voice for regional and national unity.

    He said that Clark’s leadership of organisations such as the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the South-South Peoples Assembly and the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) showcased his dedication to the betterment of Nigeria as a whole.

    He added that “Chief Clark’s advocacy for resource control, fiscal federalism and the development of the Niger Delta region will be remembered as a legacy of his tireless efforts to improve the lives of his people and all Nigerians.

    “The AYCF joins the Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family, the people of Kiagbodo Town, and all Nigerians in mourning the loss of Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark.”

  • BREAKING: Elder statesman, EK Clark is dead

    BREAKING: Elder statesman, EK Clark is dead

    Elder Statesman and Convener of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), Chief Edwin Clark is dead.

    According to the family, Clark died on Monday, February 17, 2025 at the age of 97.

    This was confirmed in an official statement signed by Prof. C. C. Clark on behalf of the family and Mr. Penawei Clark on behalf of his children.

    “The Clark-Fuludu Bekederemo family of Kiagbodo Town, Delta State, wishes to announce the passing of Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON, on Monday, 17th February 2025,” the statement read.

    The elder statesman who had great credentials was a lawyer, an administrator, Ijaw National Leader, a nationalist, a freedom fighter, leader, South-South Peoples Assembly, leader, Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum, SMBLF, and leader, Pan Niger Delta Forum, PANDEF.

    He was Commissioner for Education, Mid-Western Region, 1968-71; Commissioner for Finance and Establishment, defunct Bendel State, 1972-75; Federal Commissioner for Information, 1975; and Senator, 1979-83

    Details to follow…

  • Ijaws mount pressure to produce next Delta governor

    Ijaws mount pressure to produce next Delta governor

    The Ijaw National Congress (INC) Worldwide, has appealed to Urhobo Progressive Union (UPU), to support Ijaw candidature for Delta governorship when power returns to South Senatorial zone.

    Prof. Benjamin Okaba, President INC, made the appeal in his goodwill remark at the 93 edition of the Urhobo National Day Celebration, which held in Agbarho, Delta.

    Okaba in a statement in Abuja on Saturday said by the convention in the state, power was supposed to rotate to the southern district in the next circle of elections.

    He said it was pertinent that the UPU remembered the support from Ijaw that gave them which shots previously that produced governors.

    “The Ijaws in Delta are known to have supported the Urhobo in all their intentions and aspirations to lead the state as governors.

    “They also supported their administrations, particularly starting with former governor James Ibori and now Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori.

    “It is the belief of the INC that the UPU would remember the good deeds and support to the Urhobo by giving the Ijaws their first right of refusal.

    “This is taking into cognisance the fact that the Itsekiris of Delta South have taken a shot at this top job in the past,” he said.

    The INC President said the Ijaw Nation considered their participation in the Urhobo National Day Celebration a privilege and as well an obligation.

    According to him, the common experiences, constraints and aspiration for greatness, mutually shared, over the years, have made the Urhobo and Ijaw one of the closest neighbours in the Niger Delta.

    “This is exemplified in part, by the fact that there is hardly any prominent Ijaw man or woman without some sort of biological and socio-economic link to the Urhobo.

    “The reverse is also the case. In major Urhobo communities (Ughelli, Agbarho, Uvwie, Abraka) the Ijaws are the largest non-indigenous population.

    “The Uvwie are even historically known to have emigrated from Tuomo Community in the Burutu Local Government Area, which extends the Ijaw fraternal penetration to the Urhobo contemporary geography.

    “Contrariwise, the Urhobos constitute the highest non-indigenous population in major Ijaw communities such as Yenagoa, Bomadi, Patani, Amassoma, Kaiama and Kpakiama,” he said.

    Okaba also said that as ethnic leaders on both sides of the divide, the INC and UPU leadership must leverage these common and strong traits/ties, and build on them to create stronger bonds of brotherhood.

    He said this was with a view to handle their common potential and multidimensional existential threats.

    “As brothers and neighbours, let us reactivate and upscale these virtues that bind us together and downplay those strange vices fighting hard to divide and destroy us,’’ he said.

    He said that the theme of the celebration “Repositioning the Urhobo Nation for More Prosperity”, was apt and captivating, particularly in the face of current realities that surround citizens in the country.

  • Ijaws send ‘special request’ to President Tinubu

    Ijaws send ‘special request’ to President Tinubu

    Ijaw National Congress (INC) Worldwide has urged President Bola Tinubu to facilitate the establishment of a nursing school in Patani, and a polytechnic in Bomadi, both Ijaw speaking areas of Delta.

    Prof. Benjamin Okaba, President, INC Worldwide, made the appeal at a news conference in Abuja on Sunday.

    Okaba said the appeal became imperative in view of two Bills before the Senate sponsored by Sen. Joel Onowakpo, representing Delta South Senatorial District.

    The Bill sought to establish the establishment of the two schools in those areas.

    He said that Ijaw people globally were thrilled at the prospects of having such higher institutions finally located in their long-neglected communities.

    He also appealed to the Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio and Speaker, House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abass, to accelerate the hearing of the Bill.

    He also said the Bill was significant because it would go a long way in addressing the long-standing educational aspirations of the Ijaw people of Delta.

    “We humbly appeal to President Bola Tinubu to leverage his presidential influence to support the swift passage of these bills through the National Assembly and to give his assent promptly once they are passed.

    “At this critical juncture in history, these projects represent the most meaningful way to address the developmental yearnings of the Delta Ijaws.

    “We also make an earnest appeal to the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to ensure these bills are expedited through the legislative process.

    “The significance of these bills cannot be overemphasised as they directly address the long-standing educational aspirations of the Ijaw people of Delta State.

    “The Ijaw people, both in Delta and across the globe, are already thrilled at the prospects of having such higher institutions finally located in their long-neglected communities,” he said.

    The INC president said for decades the Ijaw people of Delta had consistently advocated the establishment of higher institutions in their areas.

    “Unfortunately these appeals have fallen on deaf ears though the state boasts the highest number of higher institutions in Nigeria.

    “Nearly all other ethnic groups within the state have benefited from these institutions, with some ethnic nationalities enjoying the presence of multiple federal and state institutions.

    “These include universities, polytechnics, colleges of education, nursing schools, and specialised medical schools, while in contrast, the Ijaw areas have been systematically overlooked.

    “Regrettably, this marginalisation persisted in spite of Ijaw representatives serving in parliament for extended periods, some for over two decades.

    “This makes Sen. Joel Onowakpo’s efforts even more commendable, as he has demonstrated rare leadership and inclusiveness in championing the cause of the Ijaw people.

    “To Sen. Onowakpo, the Ijaw National Congress says, the reward for hard work is more work,” he said.

  • Ijaw youths deny alleged plan to attack military

    Ijaw youths deny alleged plan to attack military

    The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has described an online report alleging its planned attack on military facilities across the Niger Delta region as false.

    IYC said there was no truth in the publication claiming it was planning coordinated attacks on military facilities across the region.

    The council’s rebuttal is contained in a statement issued in Yenagoa on Sunday by its spokesman, Amb. Binebai Princewill.

    According to the statement, the report emanated from the pit of hell, and one taken too far by mischief makers and enemies of the region and Ijaw nation.

    “The council would have ignored the said publication but for the times we are in.

    “It is very key and important that we clear the air to the Nigerian Military that the IYC has no issue with the military, not to talk of attacking them,” it read.

    The council said the false publication, originating from the Facebook Lite page of Officers and Cadets Worldwide, also called on military units to be vigilant and combat-ready.

    IYC recalled it had on March 18, 2024, condemned the dastard attack that killed 16 military men in Delta.

    “We did condemn the gruesome murder in strong terms and its entirety the killing of soldiers on a peace mission to Okuama in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State on March 14, 2024.

    “Hence we are wondering where this misleading information is coming from,” it read.

    The council, therefore, warned mischief makers to keep clear of IYC while urging Nigerians to disseminate only true and credible information to the public.

    “In setting the records straight, IYC has a communication channel that is used in passing information for the Ijaw youths across the world and to Nigerians in general,” the statement read.

  • Ijaw elders write Tinubu over oil theft menace

    Ijaw elders write Tinubu over oil theft menace

    Ijaw Elders Forum (IEF), a coalition of Ijaw groups, has written to President Bola Tinubu to demand a review of procedures in disposal of vessels and trucks seized for complicity in oil theft.

    The letter, dated July 31 and sighted on Thursday, condemned the menace of oil theft and the attendant effects on the Nigerian economy and the  Niger Delta environment.

    According to the letter, signed by Chief Efiye Bribena, Secretary of IEF, the indiscriminate blow up of vessels used for oil theft had adverse impact on the environment which the people depend on.

    “We write to express our utmost dissatisfaction on the mode of disposal of vessels and trucks impounded with stolen crude in the Niger Delta.

    “Destroying vessels laden with crude oil exacerbates the existential threat to the environment and survival of the people.

    “In fact, the destruction of the MT TURA in the latest incident by bombing of the vessel was extremely horrifying and unacceptable,” the IEF said.

    The IEF recommended implementation of measures in the interest of the environment, transparency and the national economic interest.

    “NNPCL and the Military Authorities should improve the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for disposal of such vessels in the future.

    “All efforts should be made to evacuate the stolen crude to the nearest oil Flow station, Oil Terminal or Refinery before proper disposal of such vessels.

    “The relevant authorities should install an open-access portal for tracking vessels that are seized with stolen crude and products, up till the point of final disposal,” the IEF said.

    The group sought collaboration with stakeholders such as the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), and the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

    The IEF letter was also endorsed by representatives of the coalition comprising Ijaw Professionals Association, Ijaw Nation Forum, G24 Embasara Foundation, and Ijaw Women Connect.

    They urged the federal government to be transparent and disclose the masterminds of the syndicate as well as the prosecution of the owners of the impounded vessels.

    The forum also appealed to the President to prevail on the oil industry regulators to urgently direct oil firms to safely decommission all idle well heads and pipelines in the Niger Delta region.

    The IEF urged the agencies of the federal government in the oil sector to discourage artisanal refineries and set machinery in motion to promote construction of modular refineries in oil bearing communities.