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By Omoniyi Salaudeen
The Ijaw Elders Forum (IEF) has formally dissociated itself from the current leadership and worldwide structure of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), citing a deep constitutional crisis and a breakdown of internal democracy.
In a strongly worded statement signed by its Chairman and Secretary, Chief Bukazi Etete and Mr. Efiye Bribena respectively, the IEF expressed grave concern over the INC leadership’s persistent failure to comply with its own constitution. The forum stated that no institution can legitimately represent the Ijaw people while disregarding the foundational legal framework from which its authority is derived.
The group noted with dismay that public confidence in the INC’s ability to defend the political, economic, and environmental interests of the Ijaw had been severely eroded.
Consequently, the IEF announced its resolve to step into the leadership vacuum and reactivate the strategic advocacy role it successfully maintained between 2015 and 2021, when internal turmoil similarly rendered the INC comatose.
“Accordingly, until all constitutional issues affecting the status, governance, and legitimacy of the INC are conclusively resolved and constitutional order is restored, the IEF shall again fill the resulting vacuum in the advancement of Ijaw collective interests… We shall continue to discharge this responsibility in the overriding interest of the Ijaw Nation and People,” the forum stated.
The group clarified that the initiative aims to restore credibility to Ijaw advocacy through strict adherence to transparency, accountability, and broad-based consultation.
Its stated objectives include safeguarding the constitutional, political, and resource rights of the Ijaw people, promoting regional unity, and engaging constructively with government and civil society stakeholders in the Niger Delta.
The IEF called upon traditional rulers, youth organizations, women’s groups, professionals, and the wider Niger Delta community to support the initiative. Emphasizing that ultimate loyalty belongs to the Ijaw Nation rather than temporary officeholders, the forum reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to restoring constitutional governance, institutional integrity, and the rule of law.
