Fresh controversy has emerged over the leadership transition of the Ijaw National Congress, INC, following the conduct of a disputed election that produced a new executive after the expiration of the tenure of the Professor Benjamin Okaba-led administration.
The latest development comes weeks after Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, brokered a reconciliation meeting aimed at resolving the crisis within the apex Ijaw socio-cultural body.
At the heart of the renewed disagreement is the outcome of the March 13 reconciliation meeting held at Government House, Yenagoa, at the instance of Governor Douye Diri.
At that meeting, parties reportedly agreed that the Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders, CITRE, which is constitutionally empowered to appoint members of the electoral committee and handle related matters, should determine a fresh date for the congress.
However, the INC National Executive Council and Electoral Committee proceeded to reschedule and hold the election on April 13, 2026, where a new leadership emerged.
The process was boycotted by some aspirants, who insist the election disregards the resolutions reached at the earlier peace meeting.
One of the aggrieved candidates, Timi Ogoriba, aligns with CITRE, describing the election as illegal
He calls on all Ijaw sons and daughters to support CITRE and ensure a fresh, credible, and widely accepted election is conducted.
Stakeholders say the unfolding dispute highlights the urgent need for unity and consensus within the Ijaw nation.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
