The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has strongly condemned the recent Supreme Court judgment on the Rivers State political crisis, warning that the ruling could destabilize the Niger Delta.
In a statement by its President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, the INC criticized the decision for failing to recognize the historical and political sacrifices made by the Ijaw people in Rivers State governance. Okaba cautioned that any move to undermine Governor Siminalayi Fubara could have serious implications for national stability and economic security.
Ijaw Contributions to Rivers State Politics
The INC traced its grievances to decades of political involvement and sacrifices made by the Ijaw people in Rivers politics. Prof. Okaba recalled that in 1999, Chief Marshall Harry played a key role in securing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ticket for Dr. Peter Odili, despite opposition from Sergeant Awuse. Harry later ensured Odili’s victory over his Kalabari rival, Chief Ebenezer Isokariari of the All Peoples Party (APP).
The INC also highlighted the assassination of Marshall Harry in 2003 after he backed Sergeant Awuse’s governorship bid, calling it a painful loss for the Ijaw people. In 2007, Ijaw leaders such as Soboma George and Farrah Dagogo helped secure victory for Sir Celestine Omehia, while Kalabari-Ijaw warlord Prince Igodo was killed during Omehia’s swearing-in to prevent security breaches.
Similarly, in 2011, the INC recalled that when Rotimi Amaechi attempted to nominate Pastor Tonye Cole as a minister, then-First Lady Dame Patience Jonathan intervened to ensure the position went to Nyesom Wike. Despite these contributions, the INC now accuses Ikwerre political elites of trying to frustrate Governor Fubara, the first riverine governor in decades.
Warning Against Political Destabilization
The INC issued a stern warning to the federal government, declaring that the Ijaw people would defend Governor Fubara “with every pint of blood in their veins.” Prof. Okaba stressed that the Ijaw have consistently worked to maintain peace in the Niger Delta, which has boosted oil production and national revenue. However, he warned that the same resources are now being used to marginalize the Ijaw people, not just in Rivers State but also in Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Akwa Ibom.
A Direct Message to President Tinubu
Addressing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the INC cautioned that the Rivers political crisis is not just routine politicking but a threat to national stability. Okaba reminded the President that the Ijaw people, numbering over 40 million globally, would not tolerate any attempt to diminish their political influence.
While urging Governor Fubara to work with all arms of government in the spirit of governance, the INC warned that if his tenure is disrupted by the Amaewhule-led Assembly or any other political force, the group cannot guarantee continued peace in the Niger Delta. Prof. Okaba hinted that this could have serious consequences for Nigeria’s oil production and economic stability.
Uncertain Future for Rivers State
With the INC taking a firm stand, political tensions in Rivers State could escalate further if an amicable resolution is not reached. All eyes are now on President Tinubu and other national leaders to prevent the situation from spiraling into chaos.
As the power struggle intensifies, the INC has made its position clear—any attempt to sideline Governor Fubara may come with significant consequences for both Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.
