Ijaw National Congress Crisis Deepens As Gov Diri Opposes New Exco Amid Court Battle

Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, has advised the outgoing Prof. Benjamin Okaba-led executive committee of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Electoral Committee not to proceed with the advertised inauguration of a new executive scheduled for May 14, 2026.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, the Bayelsa governor said his decision was based on the legal issues arising from the recent purported election of a new executive for the foremost Ijaw nation socio-cultural organisation.

Governor Diri, who was the pioneer INC Organising Secretary, contended that as a leader and key stakeholder, his primary interest was the unity of the Ijaw ethnic nationality and the resolution of all the issues thrown up by the election.

He expressed concern that the INC leadership, without informing him or seeking his consent, went ahead to use his name and official title in advertising the forthcoming programme.

He said this was capable of sending out a wrong signal and creating confusion within the Ijaw nation.

“Let me be unequivocal that I am not in support of anyone trying to fractionalize the INC or cause disaffection in the Ijaw nation.

“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?

“My advice to the outgoing Okaba-led Exco is to tread cautiously and allow the dispute resolution processes to go through.

“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 cautioned against promoting division and disunity through an important leadership organisation as the INC.

According to the Bayelsa governor, 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.