Being an Address by Prof. Benjamin O. Okaba, President of Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global, on the Occasion of the Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience Summit, at Nice, France, on the 7th of June, 2025.

His Excellencies, Distinguished Guests, Esteemed Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen, I bring felicitations from the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the apex socio-cultural organization of the Ijaw people, one of the four largest ethnic nationalities of Nigeria.

I stand before you today on the occasion of the Ocean Rise and Coastal Resilience Summit 2025 (holding in Nice, France) to address a critical issue that affects our very essence and existence as a people: As the President of the Ijaw National Congress, I consider it important to highlight the implications of these issues for economic and environmental sustainability in Ijaw Land, at this important platform.This is inspite of our natural endowment experience as master mariners.

The Ijaw Reality

As an indigenous nation living in the Niger Delta, we are no strangers to the devastating impacts of climate change, environmental degradation, and oil pollution. Our people have borne the brunt of extractive exploitation, with our lands, waters, and ecosystems scarred by decades of neglect and abuse since 1956/1958, when oil and gas was first discovered in commercial quantities in Oloibiri in Ogbia Local Government Area of the present Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Rising sea levels, ocean surges, and flooding events threaten our very existence.

The Challenges We Face

Ijaws occupy over 60% of the entire Nigeria coastline, from the literal indigenous ljaw communities on Akwa lbom, Rivers Delta, Ondo, and Lagos States in Nigeria. Infact ,the ocean and it’s divers marine and it’s acquatice resources defines the ljaw identity livelihood systems and heritage Our communities are on the frontlines of climate change, facing rising sea levels, storm surges, and environmental degradation. The impacts are far-reaching, from damage to infrastructure and livelihoods to threats to our very way of life. We have seen our mangrove forests, a vital component of our ecosystem, being destroyed, and our fisheries being depleted. Our people are struggling to cope with the loss of their livelihoods and the degradation of their environment.

The Impact on Our Economy

The impact of climate change and environmental degradation on our economy is significant. Our fisheries, agriculture, and tourism sectors are all vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The damage to our infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings, is also a significant concern. We need to take immediate action to mitigate these impacts and ensure the long-term sustainability of our economy, but not without support from the national and international communities.

The Importance of Coastal Resilience

Coastal resilience is critical to the survival of our communities. We need to take a proactive approach to managing our coastal resources, protecting our infrastructure, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. This includes investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, promoting ecosystem-based adaptation, and supporting climate-resilient livelihoods.

Our Demands

We demand that policymakers and stakeholders at national and international levels prioritize coastal resilience, policy, and governance that supports the needs of our communities through the instrumentality of:

1. Integrated Coastal Management: Developing plans that balance economic, environmental, and social objectives. We need to ensure that our coastal management plans are integrated, inclusive, and sustainable.

2. Climate Change Adaptation: Supporting initiatives that help us adapt to the impacts of climate change. We need to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure, promote ecosystem-based adaptation, and support climate-resilient livelihoods.

3. Community Engagement: Ensuring that our communities are actively involved in decision-making processes. We need to ensure that our communities are at the forefront of decision-making and that their voices are heard.

4. Leveraging on Indigenous Knowledge and Technology: We need to review and update the existing indigenous capacities to be able to meet up with current challenges.lnfact a bottom -up approach is most promising.

Our Call to Action

We call upon the global community to recognize the unique challenges faced by coastal communities like ours. We seek solidarity, not charity. Coastal resilience must be built on justice, equity, and the recognition of our rights as indigenous peoples. We demand:

1. Direct access to climate finance for subnational entities and local communities.

2. A UN Convention for the Conservation of River Deltas, recognizing the specific needs and challenges of deltaic regions.

3. Technological partnerships to support our efforts in mangrove restoration, early warning systems, and integrated coastal zone management.

4. South-South cooperation between deltaic states, sharing knowledge and best practices.I would advise that the Governors of Akwa lbom, Bayelsa, Cross Rivers, Ondo and Lagos States should domesticate the ideals of the Global initiative for the fight against the menance of Climate Change and collaborate amongst themselves as regional partners and collaborate with the relevant international agencies. Systemic climate adaptation and environment integrity would be easier actualized with dignity.

We call upon all stakeholders to join us in this effort. Let us work together to build a more resilient and sustainable future for Ijawland. We will not be deterred by the challenges we face. We will rise, and we will thrive. We need to take immediate action to address the impacts of climate change, promote sustainable development, and protect our environment.

Our Commitment

The INC reaffirms our commitment to building resilience, providing sustainable development and protecting the right of the people This position is it n line with our persistent resolve on Self determination and control of our God given Water and Land resources. We are committed to promoting the interests of our people and protecting our environment. We will continue to advocate for policies and practices that support our communities and ensure a sustainable future. We will work with policymakers, stakeholders, and our communities to develop and implement effective coastal management plans, support climate change adaptation initiatives, and promote sustainable livelihoods.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that coastal resilience, policy, and governance are critical to the survival and prosperity of our communities. We need to take a proactive approach to managing our coastal resources, protecting our infrastructure, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. I urge all stakeholders to join us in this effort and to work together towards a more resilient and sustainable future for Ijaw Land.

Thank you.

Date: June 3,2025

RE: Misguided Assertions in Kabowei Akamande’s “ ” Purities and Impurities: Discourse on Ijaw Leadership” Lecture – Setting the Records Straight

The attention of the Ijaw Study Group (ISG) has been drawn to a recent lecture titled “Purities and Impurities: Discourse on ijaw Leadership” delivered by Mr. Kabowei Akamande during the 2025 Isaac Adaka Boro Day held in the United Kingdom.

While we acknowledge and welcome critical reflections on the state of Ijaw affairs, we must categorically reject the misleading claims and poorly researched assertions directed at the INC and its current leadership.

1. On Allegation of Decaying Leadership:

Mr. Akamande opens with a sweeping dismissal of the present-day Ijaw leadership, accusing it of being compromised and ineffective. We consider this not only ahistorical but deeply uninformed. The INC under Professor Okaba has actively defended the interests of the ijaw people through relentless advocacy, consistent community engagement, and robust policy positioning. Accusing the leadership of capitulation without offering verifiable evidence is a disservice to those who have risked reputation and comfort for the cause of ijaw survival.

2. On the INC’s Response to the Fubara Political Crisis:

It is patently false to claim that the INC and its President were silent during the political crisis involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara. From issuing prompt and unambiguous press statements to participating in street protests and granting multiple national and international interviews, Professor Okaba and the INC stood firmly against unconstitutional attempts to unseat Ijaw-born Governor of Rivers State. We challenge Mr.Akamande or any objective observer to produce evidence contradicting this assertions that are sufficiently in the pubic domain.

3. On Claims of Lack of Revolutionary Leadership:

Contrary to Mr. Akamande’s claims, Professor Okaba’s leadership has been measured, strategic, and deeply committed to sustainable action-not performative louting. The INC understands that meaningful leadership is not about noise but results.it was through behind-the scenes consultation, engagement with other ethnic nationalities, and peace-building interventions that the INC helped de-escalate tensions while affirming the will of the people.

4. On Youth and Generational Dynamics:

The attempt to discredit an entire generation of ijaw leadership as lacking backbone or courage is a dangerous generalization. Under Professor Okaba , the INC has broadened its leadership inclusion structure, bringing young voices into its executive and policy platforms. Leadership in this era is not about age; it is about capacity, commitment, and community trust. If Mr. Akamande is truly concerned about youth relevance. He is welcome to contribute constructively through engagement rather than grandstanding.

5. On the Role of “Made Ijaw Men”:

Mr. Akamande’s lecture fails to interrogate the silence of powerful Ijaw elites during the political upheaval. The question remains: Where do these “made Ijaw men” when the INC stood alone in many battles? Leadership is a collective task, not a spectator sport. The INC President has not only shown up but has stayed standing, often without the support of those with means and influence. Casting blame on the who bears the weight of responsibility while others retreat is both unfair and intellectually dishonest.

6. Commercial and Industrial INC:

On the subject of Commercial and Industrial INC, one is somewhat compelled to state that better and adequate knowledge is required for anyone to delve into an area such as this. This is premised on the fact that the INC has but only very limited resources to run it’s affairs at the moment.

To address this issue of Commercialization and Industrialization of the INC, the leadership organized a meeting in January 2024 to plan a Summit that would bring together key stakeholders from the Political and Business sectors in Ijaw Land. A team, led by the INC President, was tasked with meeting the Governor of Bayelsa State, which was indeed held, to discuss potential collaborations. The outcome of this meeting is still pending.

The emphasis is on the importance of careful planning and adequate knowledge in tackling complex issues, highlighting the need for a well-organized Summit with clear plans. It also underscores the INC leadership’s role as servants of the Ijaw Nation, drawing strength from the Community, Clan and Zone, including individuals like Kabowei Akamande and his network.

Of a truth, adequate knowledge is required before speaking on such important matters, lest the whole effort would packed in sensational baskets rather than meaningful ventures.

Except such well thought out and organized Summit takes place and comes up with very astute and clear cut plans, the INC alone cannot do everything on its own. The Leadership of the INC are only leading the people of Ijaw Nation by service. Emphatically speaking – the people at the helms of affairs in the INC draw their strength from the generality of the Ijaws.

Conclusion:

The Ijaw National Congress reiterates its openness to constructive criticism, but such critique must be rooted in facts and respect for the truth. Mr. Kabowei Akamande’s lecture, though well-packaged in tone, lacked the rigorous engagement and factual basis necessary for serious public discourse. Professor Benjamin Ogele Okaba remains a pillar of principled leadership and will continue to serve the Ijaw Nation with clarity, courage, and conviction.

We encourage well-meaning Ijaw sons and daughters to rise above sensational commentary and instead join hands in building the future we desire.

Signed:

Kemegha Albert,
Ijaw Study Group (ISG) International.

PRESS STATEMENT:

RE: CRISIS IN ODIMODI FEDERATED COMMUNITY: CHAIRMAN’S RELEASE SPARKS FEAR OF LIFE AND UNREST

Issued by Prince Dr. Peretengboro Klintin Bibaikefie, CEO of IduwiniVoice
June 3, 2025

Good day, my reading audience and gentlemen of the press.

My attention has been drawn to a recently circulated publication titled *”Crisis in Odimodi Federated Community: Chairman’s Release Sparks Fear of Life and Unrest,”* dated June 1, 2025 and published by one Metro Daily.

Permit me to expressly state that no single word in that very poorly crafted publication is true. It must be emphasized that Rt. Hon. Franc Enekorogha has never been an interested party in Odimodi Community Chairmanship or any other contention thereto, and he never visited Odimodi his paternal home for any involvement is such shameful endeavours.

As a well-read and exposed individual who amongst other ventures lead a media organisation that is dedicated to the unity, progress, and development of not just Communities in Odimodi land, Iduwini Kingdom, Ijaw nation, and the Niger Delta, but of Nigeria and Africa, I find the contents of the the publication grossly exaggerated, ill-motivated, and totally dangerous, especially in its casual promotion of narratives that may incite the Nigerian Military’s signature invasion against the land and people of Odimodi. Having said that, kindly stay with me as I take you on a point-by-point rebuttal to the assertions made, with emphasis on the need for maturity, accountability, and redirection of our collective energies towards more pressing and profitable communal needs.

1. Alleged Lockdown and Weapons Importation

The claim that the recently arrested and released Chairman of Odimodi Community, Mr. Newworld Endoro, imposed a three-hour forced lockdown to import weapons under cultural guise, is not only unsubstantiable but reckless. Such alarmist rhetoric, if not corrected, could easily lead to military invasion under the guise of national security. This is a dangerous joke taken too far, and it must be stopped now before we inflict irreversible damages to individuals and our communities, now or in the future. Surfice to say that Odimodi has been claimed to be a peaceful, hospitable, and law-abiding place that has worn government and companies’ peace awards for its abhorrence to criminality and violence.

2. Accusations Against Rt. Hon. Franc Enekorogha

The deliberate attempt to drag the name of Rt. Hon. Franc Enekorogha – a respected former Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly and former Member of the Federal House of Representatives, representing Burutu Federal Constituency – into this fabricated conflict is utterly evil and condemnable in the strongest term. His only “offence,” it seems, was choosing to visit his father’s land. To weaponize that simple, legitimate act in the said crisis fueled by nothing else but deep-seated vendatta and defence of personal egos is both counterproductive and disgraceful of the sponsors of that ill-pakaged publication.

3. Witness Intimidation and Threats to Lives

While I acknowledge the importance of justice in ‘sane cases’, I totally disagree with the idea that the entire community is under siege due to a few unverified claims. It is safe to categorically state there, both the families of promoters of this evil propaganda and indeed all indigenes of Odimodi are going about their normal business as I speak. Pilling accusations on an entire community weakens our collective credibility and makes our once respected communities of Odumimodi a laughing stock before the general public.

4. Bail Conditions and Judicial Confidence

The insinuation that the judiciary erred in granting bail to Odimodi Community Chairman is a baseless attack on a government institution on who’s strength even the accusers of Odimodi people hope to achieve their unachievable dream of sending their own kins to jail. In any case, what degree of justice or fulfilment will the incarceration of any Odimodi man serve the peddlers of these propaganda, should we care to introspect. The accusers must remember that it is their duty to prove their allegations beyond reasonable doubts and until proven otherwise before a competent judicial authority, Mr. Endoro and his co-travailers remain innocent of all charges. To suggest that this freedom is an existential threat to Odimodi Community, which still accepts him as their legitimate leader is not only defamatory but deeply irresponsible.

5. Ego and Vendatta Will Not Build but Destroy Odimodi

The current trajectory of internal crisis, public shaming, and smear campaigns is a betrayal of not just our founding fathers but of our future generations. We must let go of bitterness, unforgiveness, selfishness, ego, and embrace unity of purpose. The future of Odimodi and the entire Iduwini Kingdom depends on collective wisdom, not destruction flexing of personal muscles.

6. Misplaced Priorities and Squandered Energy

It is important to state here that similar frivolous and unfounded alarmist allegations are being levied against the distractors of the Newworld Endoro-led Odimodi Community leadership As well. Being very fitting description, they are all as factless and as utterly condemnable as the very dangerous allegations made in the referred publication. Rather than uniting and investing our financial, political, business, mental, and otherwise energies in these highly unproductive mudslinging and factionalization of our communities, which has brought nothing but slower pace of development, family hatred, pains, financial losses, and communal disgrace amongst the committee of communities around us, we should be channelling our efforts into advocacy, political advancement, and lobbying for developmental projects. Rather than fighting ourselves, we should be fighting for ourselves – against poverty, for the speedy construction of an all-season motorable road to connect Odimodi land to Warri city. The long-overdue Gbaregolor-Ogulagha road mapped to pass through Odimodi land, the Odimodi shoreline protection project, and Odimodi-Beniboye roads all lying fallow in the shelves of the NDDC should deserve our connections and community mobilisation capabilities. More education, political advancement, industrialisation of our farming and fishing potentials are more of Odimodi problems requiring our energies than fighting tooth-and-nails to either jail a brother or incite the government to invade Odimodi Communities like they’ve done to numerous ijaw communities, unjustifiedly so, just for the crumbs on the table.

Conclusion

I’m compelled to make this press statement to serve as both a call to conscience and a challenge to leadership. Those who claim to be acting in the best interest of Odimodi must stop inciting chaos under the guise of seeking justice. If we must raise our voices, let it be to demand hospitals, roads, schools, and environmental justice-not to amplify infighting that distracts us from real developmental issues. If we must raise funds through communal contributions, such should be for the purpose of funding trips to Delta State Government House in Asaba, NDDC Towers in Portharcourt, Local Content Tower in Yenagoa, SSDC Tower in Uyo, and of course, Federal Ministries in Abuja.

Here’s is demanding that all parties cease the continuation and spread of hostilities with inflammatory but unfounded propaganda and instead meet at the table of reason, accountability, and strategic progress.

If we claim to be leaders, let us such, not instigators of violence or chaos.
Let us build, not burn!

Signed:

Prince (Dr.) Peretengboro Klintin Bibaikefie,
CEO, IduwiniVoice.