The lingering crisis rocking the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the apex body of the Ijaw people worldwide, has taken a new turn as Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, advised the outgoing Professor Benjamin Okaba-led executive committee and the electoral committee to halt the planned inauguration of a new executive scheduled for May 14, 2026.
Background of the Crisis
The INC is facing a severe leadership crisis following a disputed election held on April 13, 2026, for a new National Executive Council. Key stakeholders, including the Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE), rejected the election results. Additionally, a court order has stopped the inauguration of the newly elected officers, leaving the organization in a leadership stalemate.
Governor Diri's Statement
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, Governor Diri explained that his decision was based on the legal issues arising from the recent purported election of a new executive for the foremost Ijaw socio-cultural organization. Governor Diri, who served as the pioneer Organising Secretary of the INC, emphasized that as a leader and key stakeholder, his primary interest is the unity of the Ijaw ethnic nationality and the resolution of all issues stemming from the election.
He expressed concern that the INC leadership, without informing him or seeking his consent, used his name and official title in advertising the forthcoming programme. He warned that this could send a wrong signal and create confusion within the Ijaw nation.
Call for Caution
“Let me be unequivocal that I am not in support of anyone trying to fractionalise the INC or cause disaffection in the Ijaw nation,” Diri stated. “At the moment, Ijaw leaders are working towards resolving the crisis that arose from the purported election of a new INC leadership. The matter is even still a subject of litigation. So why the hurry?”
He advised the outgoing Okaba-led Exco to tread cautiously and allow the dispute resolution processes to proceed. “As a leader of the Ijaw nation, my uppermost concern and responsibility is to ensure that our people are united and co-exist in harmony,” he added.
Unity Over Division
Governor Diri cautioned against promoting division and disunity through an important leadership organization like the INC. According to him, the INC remains the most critical and effective voice of the Ijaw people, and no attempt should be made to undermine its legitimacy and integrity.
