Abuja – The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has called on President Bola Tinubu to rein in the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, over alleged remarks downplaying the demographic significance of the Ijaw people in Rivers and other South-South states.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, INC National Publicity Secretary, Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, expressed the congress’s concerns over Wike’s comments, stating that such remarks undermine the historical and political standing of the Ijaw people.
“We will continue to maintain peace and stability, as we call on President Tinubu to caution him and redirect his focus to his ministerial duties,” the statement read.
The INC emphasized that the Ijaw people are one of Nigeria’s largest ethnic groups, with a population exceeding 40 million. The congress also highlighted the Ijaw’s significant presence in Rivers State, where they occupy eight local government areas, as well as in Delta State.
“As the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria and the oldest documented tribe in the country, the Ijaw have consistently championed fairness and equity in the Niger Delta and South-South region. We will not be deterred by individual attempts to provoke us,” Oyakemeagbegha stated.
The congress urged Wike, who served as Rivers State governor for eight years, to demonstrate a more informed understanding of the region’s history and cultural diversity. It reaffirmed its commitment to fostering peace and unity in the Niger Delta while calling for responsible leadership at all levels.
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