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From: Ben Dunno, Warri
Newly-inaugurated President of Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Comrade Eric Omare, has promised to ensure that the struggle for “self actualisation and determination” by the Ijaw nation was achievable within the framework of the constitution in line with true federalism.
Speaking in an address delivered shortly after his inauguration as the 7th IYC President, in Warri, at the weekend, Omare said his administration would consolidate on the past achievements of his predecessors in office to ensure a better deal for the ijaw nation within the Nigerian state.
While explaining that the self determination means having a political space where the Ijaw people can have control of their resources and govern themselves, Omare said the Ijaws would explore all legitimate means known to law to achieve this goal.
According to him, “We do not want a situation as it is now where the Ijaw people are balkanised in six different states as minorities, except Bayelsa State.
“In Ondo State, Ijaw people are minorities. Whereas we are the mainstay of that state.
“In Edo State, the Ijaw people are not just minorities but they are treated like third class citizens.
“In Delta, especially the main part where we are standing here, we are treated as second class citizens. We can vote but cannot be voted for.
“We cannot vote a house of assembly member. We cannot put a council member without begging. In Warri South, We cannot even produce a councillor.
