As tensions escalate over the political crisis in Rivers State, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has strongly condemned the Supreme Court ruling on the matter, warning that it could trigger widespread unrest in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Monday, INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, criticized the judgment for disregarding the historical and political contributions of the Ijaw people to Rivers State governance. He cautioned that any attempt to undermine Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration could have severe consequences for national stability and economic security.
Highlighting the Ijaw people’s long-standing role in shaping the state’s political landscape, Prof. Okaba traced key moments in Rivers politics, including their sacrifices and contributions to past administrations. He pointed to pivotal figures such as Chief Marshall Harry, Soboma George, and Farrah Dagogo, who played critical roles in past elections, as well as instances of political assassinations that have marked the region’s turbulent history.
According to the INC, the Ijaw people will not stand by and watch their first riverine governor in decades be sidelined. Prof. Okaba warned that while the INC has continually advocated for peace in the Niger Delta—contributing to stable oil production and national revenue—the continued marginalization of Ijaw interests could lead to unrest.
Extending its concerns beyond Rivers State, the INC also cited political exclusion of Ijaw communities in Ondo, Edo, Delta, and Akwa Ibom states.
Issuing a direct caution to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the INC emphasized that the crisis must not be dismissed as mere politicking. With over 40 million Ijaw people globally, the body declared it would resist any attempt to undermine their political relevance.
While urging Governor Fubara to work with all duly constituted arms of government, the INC stressed that should his tenure be truncated, it could jeopardize the fragile peace in the Niger Delta and disrupt oil production—a warning with significant implications for Nigeria’s economy.
With the INC drawing a firm battle line, all eyes are now on the federal government and key stakeholders to navigate the deepening crisis and prevent potential chaos in the region.
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