Press Statement
INC PRESS STATEMENT: DEMAND FOR THE CREATION OF TORU-EBE STATE (FROM DELTA, EDO, AND ONDO STATES), AND OIL RIVERS STATE (FROM RIVERS AND AKWA-IBOM STATES), RESPECTIVELY: A THOUGHTFUL ACTION FOR PEACE AND PROGRESS OF THE NIGERIAN STATE.
IJAW NATIONAL CONGRESS (INC) WORLD-WIDE.
PRESS STATEMENT, FEBRUARY 5TH, 2025, AT IJAW HOUSE, YENAGOA
DEMAND FOR THE CREATION OF TORU-EBE AND OIL RIVERS STATES (FROM DELTA, EDO, AND ONDO STATES, AND RIVERS AND AKWA-IBOM STATES, RESPECTIVELY): A THOUGHTFUL ACTION FOR PEACE AND PROGRESS OF THE NIGERIAN STATE.
INTRODUCTION
1. The Ijaw National Congress (INC), on behalf of the Toru-Ebe State and the Oil Rivers State Creation Movements, the Ijaw people of Delta, Edo, Ondo, Rivers, and Akwa-Ibom States, hereby issue this Press Statement in respect to our formal request to the National Assembly for the creation of two (2) New states, namely Toru-Ebe State and Oil Rivers State for the Ijaw people of Nigeria. The creation of these two (2) additional states is one of the crucial, sensitive and prescient irreducible conditions for the continuous commitment of the Ijaw people to the Nigerian project.
2. For decades, successive Nigerian governments have attempted to address the Ijaw and Niger Delta crisis through interventionist agencies such as the Niger Delta Development Board (NDDB) in 1961, the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority (NDBDA) in 1976, the Presidential Task Force on Oil Mineral Producing Area Development Commission (OMPADEC) in 1992, and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2000. However, these agencies have failed to provide a lasting solution to the fundamental issues affecting the Ijaw people. As the late Chief Dr. Harold Dappa-Biriye rightly observed, “Physical development cannot be an answer to the political aspirations of a people.”
3. The Ijaw, despite being the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria, have only one homogenous state (Bayelsa), which represents less than one-third of the Ijaw population. State creation is the basis for federal representation, and without Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States, the Ijaw people will continue to be politically sidelined.
4. This demand is also in line with Section 8(1)(a) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and follows previous submissions to various constitutional review committees, including the Mbanefo Committee on State Creation (1996), the National Political Reform Conference (2005), the 2014 National Conference and Senate/House of Representatives Committee on Constitutional Amendment (2021 and 2024).
5. JUSTIFICATION FOR TORU-EBE STATE CREATION
a. The Ijaw people in Delta, Edo, and Ondo States have been systematically balkanized into different states and local government areas, thereby reducing their political influence and preventing fair representation. Despite being the majority in certain areas, they remain politically suppressed, and unabled to hold key leadership positions.
b. Since the colonial era, Ijaw communities have been arbitrarily divided across multiple States. This fragmentation has left them as permanent minorities, who are unable to fully participate in governance and other decision making processes.
c. The proposed Toru-Ebe State is rich in oil and gas, timber, fisheries, and other natural resources, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s economy. However, this territory has suffered severe environmental degradation and lacks commensurate infrastructure development.
d. The ongoing ethnic tensions between the Ijaw and their neighbours in Delta, Edo, and Ondo States stem from political exclusion and resource control struggles. Creating Toru-Ebe State will address these grievances, and ensure long-term peace and stability.
e. The principle of co-terminosity, as emphasized by the political legend Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe in 1980, states that no ethnic group should be fragmented in a way that makes them minorities in multiple States. The creation of Toru-Ebe State will allow the Ijaw people to govern themselves and determine their future.
5.1 COMPOSITION OF THE PROPOSED TORU-EBE STATE
The proposed Toru-Ebe State will comprise the following local government areas:
Delta State: (Bomadi LGA, Burutu LGA, Patani LGA, Part of Warri South West LGA, Part of Warri South LGA, and Part of Warri North LGA)
Edo State: (Part of Ovia South West LGA, Part of Ovia North East LGA, and Part of Ikpoba-Okha LGA)
Ondo State: (Ese-Odo LGA, and Part of Odigbo LGA)
PROPOSED STATE CAPITAL
The Capital of Toru-Ebe State shall be Burutu Township, the Headquarters of the current Burutu LGA of Delta State.
6. JUSTIFICATION FOR THE CREATION OF OIL RIVERS STATE
a. The failure to provide a political solution to the Ijaw question has led to the persistent crises in the area. The creation of Oil Rivers State will provide the missing political framework necessary to achieve lasting peace, stability, and meaningful development in the Ijaw territory.
b. This territory remains one of the most environmentally degraded areas in the world, with massive oil spills, gas flaring and ecological destruction, threatening the very survival of its people. Existing environmental laws are inadequate and poorly enforced. A state of our own will give us the autonomy to enforce policies that protect our environment and ensure sustainable development.
c. The Willinks Commission Report (1958) acknowledged that development in the (Ijaw) Niger Delta is uniquely challenging due to its difficult terrain. The current state structure has failed to address this, leaving the area without basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and healthcare. Oil Rivers State will give us the opportunity to take charge of our own development.
d. Despite being a major contributor to Nigeria’s economy, the Ijaw people receive disproportionately low federal allocations. With only one state of our own, federal funds are distributed unfairly, deepening poverty and underdevelopment. The creation of Oil Rivers State will help correct this economic imbalance.
e. There is no significant federal presence in the entire Ijaw territory – no federal roads, no universities, no specialized hospitals, no infrastructure projects of national significance. Oil Rivers State will serve as a vehicle for attracting much-needed federal investment and infrastructure.
f. Due to political fragmentation, many Ijaw communities face cultural extinction, with some losing their native language and traditions. The establishment of Oil Rivers State will create an environment where Ijaw heritage and identity can thrive.
g. By addressing the political and economic marginalization of the Ijaw people, the creation of Oil Rivers State will foster national unity and strengthen the Nigerian Federation.
6.1 COMPOSITION OF THE PROPOSED OIL RIVERS STATE
The proposed Oil Rivers State consists of the Ijaw LGAs in Rivers State and Akwa-Ibom State viz;
Rivers State: (Engeni LGA, ABUA/Odua LGA, Akuku Toru LGA, Degema LGA, Okrika LGA, Ogu – Bolo LGA, Bonny LGA, Andoni LGA and Opobo LGA)
Akwa-Ibom State: (Eastern Obolo LGA and Ibeno LGA)
PROPOSED STATE CAPITAL
The Capital of the proposed Oil Rivers State is Southern Port Harcourt City.
The proposed Oil Rivers State is endowed with abundant natural and human resources, making it economically viable. The state has:
a. Vast Mangrove Forests – Supporting timber, boat building, and furniture industries.
b. Rich Fisheries and Agricultural Potential – Supporting large-scale food production and export.
c. Oil Palm Industry – Reviving the palm oil sector as a major revenue source.
d. Tourism Opportunities – Development of world-class coastal resorts and wildlife parks.
e. Natural Harbours – Enabling trade, commerce, and industrial development.
f. Oil and Gas Resources – With over 30 oil and gas fields, contributing significantly to national revenue.
OUR PRAYER:
We hereby call upon the National Assembly of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to give serious and favorable consideration to our request for the creation of Toru-Ebe State and Oil Rivers State.
The demand for these states is not new. It is a demand rooted in history, fairness, and the survival of our people. We are confident that the creation of Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States will be a historic step towards justice, equity, and sustainable peace in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
We commend the leadership of the National Assembly for its commitment to transparency, good governance, and national development. We urge them to seize this moment in history and act in the interest of justice.
CONCLUSION
The creation of Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States is an urgent necessity, not a privilege. It will correct historical injustices, promote political inclusion, foster economic development, and secure a better future for the Ijaw people. Just imagine, the four (4) major oil export terminals in Nigeria are all located in Ijaw territory (Bonny, Forcados, Escravos and Qua-Iboe terminals), still with nothing meaningful to show for this.
We call on the Senate President, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, and all distinguished members of the National Assembly to prioritize this demand in the ongoing constitutional review process. The Ijaw people have endured decades of political marginalization, and the time for justice is now.
We urge all Ijaw sons and daughters, as well as well-meaning Nigerians, to support this demand for the sake of fairness, equity, and justice.ENDORSEMENT: The originating documents were duly endorsed by Traditional Rulers, Elected Officials, Chiefs, and Eminent Persons of the Proposed Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States.
Signed:
Prof. Benjamin Ogele Okaba
President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) World-wide.
Being Text of Press Statement Issued By Prof. Benjamin Okaba, President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global, in the Aftermath of the 2025 Ijaw National Day Celebrations
I am delighted to share with the Ijaw Nation and the general public the report on the Ijaw National Day Celebrations 2025, which took place from June 26th to 29th, 2025. The annual event is an avenue to showcase the rich culture of the Ijaw people.
Highlights of the celebrations are as follow:
Day One (1) – Thursday 26th June
The programme started on Thursday, 26th of June, 2025, at the respective Zones and Chapters, with Prayer Time, Unity Walk, Cultural Displays and Goodwill Messages. The address of Mr. President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba ‘Consolidating on the Gains of Constructive Engagement in the Ijaw Quest for Self-determination’, was presented by leaders in the respective zones and chapters.
Day Two (2) – Friday 27th June
The Headquarters of INC, Ijaw House, played host to delegates from the zones and chapters, and the general public, as the Art Exhibition of the Ijaw Nation featured in the 2nd day of the celebration. However, before the exhibition, a pep-talk on the Ijaw language counting system (presented by Pa Bozegha Whyte) was introduced, as part of the day’s activities. The Art Exhibition included Ijaw Art/History, Ijaw Cuisine, Skills, Photographic Exhibition of Ijaw Heroes/Heroines in various fields of endeavour, who have made significant contributions to the progress of the Ijaw Nation. Corporate Social Responsibility Showcase also featured in this event, with business owners displaying their goods.
Day Three (3) – Saturday 28th June
The 3rd day was in two sessions – morning and evening sessions.
Activities lined up for the morning session, which started from 9am to 3pm, included Children’s Cultural Fashion Parade, Language Quiz, Essay Writing and Traditional Outdoor Games. Students from six schools partook in the fashion parade, quiz and essay competitions.
Simultaneously, participants of the traditional outdoor games of epele, apodo and akoko thrilled the audience with their outstanding performances. A Cultural Troupe from the Eastern Zone, Street Icons of Port-Harcourt entertained the audience, displaying the rich cultural dance steps of the Ijaw Nation.
The evening session, Gala/Awards Night, began at 6:30pm, with the opening address of the Chairman of the Occasion, HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, after the welcome address by Mr. President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba. A documentary on ‘Ijaw Self-Determination Agenda: The Journey So Far’ was in display, to bring to light the efforts made so far.
The highpoint of the occasion was the Special Appreciation and Recognition of illustrious Ijaw sons and daughters who have made outstanding impacts to the growth of the Ijaw Nation. The under-listed are the recipients of the awards.
List of Award Recipients of Ijaw National Recognition.
1. Senator Douye Diri – Governor of Bayelsa State
2. HIM Pere (Barr.) Zachaeus Doubra Egbunu, JP – Agadagba of Arogbo Kingdom
3. HRM King Bubaraye Dakolo, Agada IV – Ebenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom
4. HE General Bright Ateke Fibonumama (Rtd), JP – Obeamumuodo of Abuloma Kingdom
5. HRM King (Adm) Goddy Idaminabo, CON – Amayanabo of Kala Ogoloma Kingdom
6. Chief Joshua B. Fumudoh – First elected President of INC
7. Hon. Frederick Yeitiemone Agbedi – Member Representing Bayelsa West
8. Teinbo Saturday Seliyefubara Jack-Rich – Chairman, Belema Oil Producing Nig. Ltd
9. Gesi Asamowei – Chairman, Pelfaco Nigeria Ltd
10. Dr. Felix Tuodolo – First President of IYC
11. Prof. Steve Azaiki – Chairman, Steve Azaiki Foundation
12. Mrs Rosemary Naingba Oduone – Founder, Ijaw Women Connect
13. Prof. Christopher Ogolo Ikporukpo – 2nd VC of Niger Delta University (First University in Ijaw Land)
14. Dr. Tano Dumoyei Agusomu – Head of Geography Dept, NDU, Amassoma, Head of Ijaw Map Technical Team
15. Surv. Victor Tupere George, MNIS – Geography Dept, NDU, Amassoma, Member of Ijaw Map Technical Team
16. Barrister Smooth – Famous Ijaw Musical Activist
17. Ovieteme George – Foremost Ijaw Journalist
18. Coach Monday Sinclair – Former Nigerian National Team Coach
19. Ijaw Women United for SIM
The audience was spectacularly entertained by the Bayelsa State Cultural Troupe and Barrister Smooth (the Paddle of the Niger Delta).
Day Four (4) Sunday 29th – Thanksgiving Service
The programme was concluded with a Thanksgiving Service at Royal House of Grace, Yenagoa by 11am. NEC, CITRE/NRC Leadership, Central Zone Exco and Clan Chairmen, 2025 Ijaw National Day Celebration Committee Members were in attendance.
Thank you
Prof. Benjamin Okaba
President, Ijaw National Congress (INC) Global
Press Statement
Coastal Resilience, Policy, and Governance: Implications for Economic and Environmental Sustainability in Ijawland.
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.
Press Statement
PRESS STATEMENT: OFFFICE OF THE INTERCONTINENTAL COORDINATOR, IJAW STUDY GROUP (ISG) INTERNATIONAL
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.