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The Ijaw Youth Council IYC), Central Zone, has condemned in very strong terms a shoot-out between warring parties from Bilabiri and Amatu communities in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The Information Officer, IYC Central Zone, Comrade Francis Boro, stated that the leadership of IYC Central Zone, under the leadership of its Chairman, Dr Enebraye Patrick Orusengha, has admonished the youths of the two communities that no disagreement is worth the lives of Ijaw youths’ sons and daughters.
The IYC Central Zone, while expressing deep concern over the recent tension which led to sporadic shootings and other acts of violence reportedly involving members of both communities, appealed to the youth to remain calm and avoid any action capable of worsening the situation.
Accordingly, the IYC enjoined the two parties to exercise restraint and embrace reconciliation in the collective interest of both communities.
The Council reminds the people of Bilabiri and Amatu that the history of the Ijaw nation offers painful lessons about the consequences of internal conflict.
‘’No Ijaw person should lose his or her life merely to demonstrate strength, superiority, or control. True strength is reflected in restraint, wisdom, and the ability to settle disagreements without violence.
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Bilabiri and Amatu share longstanding historical and social ties that must not be destroyed by their present differences. Whatever the issues in contention may be, they should be addressed through constructive engagement, mutual understanding, and lawful means, Boro stated.
The IYC Central Zone particularly commends the Executive Chairman of Ekeremor Local Government Area, Hon. Onniye Isaac, for his timely intervention and efforts to bring the parties together.
The Council called on all stakeholders to support genuine efforts aimed at easing tension and restoring normalcy.
The statement read in part ‘’The people of Bilabiri and Amatu are therefore encouraged to draw lessons from the past and refuse to allow violence to destroy the bonds of common ancestry, shared relationships, and collective destiny. The progress and future of both communities depend on their ability to resolve their differences peacefully.
“Traditional rulers, elders, youth leaders, and other relevant stakeholders are also called upon to provide the necessary leadership toward restoring harmony. Everyone concerned should refrain from inflammatory statements, threats, retaliation, or any conduct capable of prolonging the crisis.
“The IYC Central Zone remains committed to the promotion of unity, stability, and the collective interests of the Ijaw people and calls on the people of Bilabiri and Amatu to reject violence and work together towards a lasting resolution.’’
