News
Rivers Crisis: INC Commends Ijaw People for Avoiding Crisis, Calls on Nigerians to Rise Up Loudly and Fiercely Against the Enemies of Democracy
By Perez Bibaikefie
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has expressed gratitude to the Ijaw people for avoiding what it described as a “booby trap” allegedly set by former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, and his federal allies. According to the President of INC, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, the plan aimed to plunge Ijaw communities into a crisis that could justify emergency rule in Rivers State.
In a statement, in Yenagoa ,Prof. Benjamin Okaba commended the women of Abalama for their peaceful protest against what he called an “orchestrated show of shame,” attended only by Wike’s loyalists and a rented crowd from outside Ijaw land. He also praised the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Eastern Zone, for cancelling their proposed meeting at Abalama in response to the advice of Ijaw elders and opinion leazders.
Additionally, he acknowledged the great wisdom of King Asari Dokubo for withdrawing his surveillance personnel from the Emouha-Kalabari road to prevent unwarranted confrontation and bloodshed.The President of INC also appreciate those who embarked on peaceful protest across ijaw nation against Wike and his co travellers for insulting the sensitivity of the ljaw people.
Okaba warned of a broader political scheme targeted at democracy in Nigeria.
> “We call on Nigerians to stand against the enemies of democracy, a group of individuals who are bent on grabbing and retaining power at all costs,” he said.
The INC leader accused powerful figures in Abuja of backing Wike’s alleged plot to destabilize Rivers State as part of a grander plan for political dominance beyond 2027.
> “This is not about Rivers State or Ijaw people. It is a perfect example of a CLASS STRUGGLE between the few but POWERFUL politico economic conquerers and POWERLESS and masses. This is an orchestrated plan by an Abuja Syndicate, tacitly supported by President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Judiciary to stamp godfatherism and state capture across Nigeria, all to retain power undemocratically beyond 2027. At least the NJC report on the allegedly procured Supreme Court judgement in which matters like the Assembly Members defection that were never brought before it were adjudicated speaks to this grand plan,” Okaba stated.
Raising concerns about the future implications of such political manoeuvres, Okaba questioned:
> “Today it is Ijaws and Rivers State, who knows who and where their next target is?”
According to him, those attempting to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara have resorted to inciting violence to justify the imposition of a state of emergency.
> “They’re now trapped in their own evil machination to oust Gov. Fubara, by all means, have repeatedly attempted to cause violence, hoping to enforce ‘State of Emergency’ and run Rivers State from one of the numerous kitchens in the villa, otherwise, what official function did Wike have in Abalama for theee helicopter gunships to hover around a community that is not at war with federal government yesterday?” he wondered.
While urging continued restraint, Okaba hinted at a future confrontation if genuine efforts are not put in place and urgently to stop this madness and the lNC should not be held accountable.
> “We therefore thank our people for their patience and encourage all to continue to be peaceful as the time for an all-out war on Wike and his Abuja supporters is yet to come. This is not a political godfather and godson matter, but an existential matter for not only Ijaw people but all oppressed Nigerians whom a handful of opportunists have continued to rape in the name of political skillfulness,” he declared.
The political tension in Rivers State has been escalating amid a power struggle between Governor Fubara and Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. The INC’s statement highlights growing concerns over external interference and the potential implications for democracy in Nigeria.
It will be recalled that the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike was hosted during the thanksgiving ceremony of one of his loyalist who’s federal government appointment (Wike) had influenced at Abalamain Kalabari land days after he made derogatory statements about Ijaws over the protracted political.
By Divine Perezide
Abuja, Nigeria – July 2, 2025
A major political realignment is underway in Nigeria as leading opposition figures have formally adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the platform to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
The unveiling ceremony, which took place at the prestigious Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, drew a crowd of influential politicians and political observers. Amongst those in attendance were former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, and former Rivers State Governor and Minister for Transport, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi.
Also present was the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, along with other notable figures from across Nigeria’s political spectrum.
The event marked the formal endorsement of the ADC by a coalition of opposition leaders who are seeking to consolidate forces in a bid to mount serious challenge to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 polls.
Sources close to the coalition disclosed that discussions are already underway to restructure the leadership of the ADC to reflect the interests and participation of the newly joined political heavyweights. The move is aimed creating a united front capable of galvanising nationwide support and offering a credible alternative to the current administration.
Speaking at the gathering, coalition members emphasized the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from what they describe as deepening economic hardship, rising insecurity, and declining public trust in governance.
“The time has come for patriotic Nigerians to rise above party lines and work together to restore hope and accountability in our nation,” one of the leaders said.
The formation of this alliance signals the beginning of what could be a heated political season, with the opposition setting the tone early for what promises to be a fiercely contested Presidential race in 2027.
Moredetails regarding the coalition’s leadership structure, policy agenda, and campaign roadmap are expected to be unveiled in the coming weeks.
News
HON. NEGERESE, OTHER POLITICAL LEADERS PAY CONDOLENCES TO LATE PA. MITIN, REGENT OF OPOROMOR KINGDOM
By Divine Perezide
Yenagoa, Bayelsa State – July 2, 2025
Prominent political leaders of Ekeremor extraction and beyond paid a Condolence Visit to the family of Late Chief Mitin Tamaraumienye, the revered Regent of Oporomor Kingdom, who passed away recently.
Leading the delegation was Hon. Berry Negerese, the leader of the ‘Wind of Progress’ political movement, who described the late regent as a custodian of history, peace, tradition, unity, and a political pillar in Ekeremor and Ijaw nation at large. The visit took place in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, where family members and sympathisers gathered to honour the life and legacy of the departed patriarc.
Among others was Hon. John Alla, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Tourism Development, Barr. Japan Udoji, State Coordinator of the Wind of Progress Movement; Hon. Victor K. Ebiyekon, Secretary of the forum; and Capt. Joshua J. Oropere, Chairman of the EA Host Communities Development Trust, Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) board.
The delegation offered heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, acknowledging Chief Tamaraumienye’s role as a father and in preserving the cultural heritage of and traditional authority of Oporomor kingdom. They also commended his contributions to the peace and development of Ndoro community and beyond.
Ina brief remark during the visit, Barr. Udoji expressed, “The passing of Chief Tamaraumienye is not only a loss to his immediate family but also to the entire Ekeremor Local Government Area, and Ijaw Nation. He was a symbol of truth, courage, and wisdom.”
The condolence visit ended with prayers for strength and comfort for the family, and tributes echoing the profound impact the late regent had on the socio-cultural and socio-political landscape of not just Ekeremor Local Government Area but Bayelsa State and Ijaw Nation at large.
Meanwhile, burial arrangements are yet to be announced by the family as of press time.
(c) IduwiniVoice
By DivinePerezide, June 30, 2025
Tuomo, Burutu _ Peace has been fully restored to Tuomo community following recent tensions surrounding the Amananawei election, as residents warmly welcomed the Executive Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Hon. Dr. Julius Takeme, during a visit to the community on Monday.
Dr. Takeme’s visit was characterized with widespread jubilation, as community members, particularly women carrying placards with various inscriptions: “Tuomo People Thank Burutu LGA Chairman” , “Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, We Thank You” and others in appreciation of the swift intervention by the two authorities.
Addressing the residents, Dr. Takeme reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining law and order, emphasizing that, as the Chief Security Officer of the LGA, he would not allow any individual or group to undermine peace and security. He condemned the actions of those who took the law into their hands by intimidating, assaulting and detaining innocent persons in their local cells.
“The era of using power to intimidate or oppress people is over. The law is supreme and binding on all,” Dr. Takeme stated, urging residents to remain calm and go about their normal activities without fear.
The Council Chairman also called on the Tuomo Community Chairman, Mr. Edonyaibo Morentei Warebi, to ensure inclusive leadership and uphold the constitution guiding the community’s affairs. Similarly, he advised the newly elected Amananawei, Chief Arebebe Ebiyemi, whose election was held on June 11, 2025 to foster peace and unity in his leadership.
Dr. Takeme commended the Nigerian Police Force for her professionalism in restoring peace to the area, particularly the Burutu Area Commander, ACP Redengha Timpa, who was always on ground personally during the intervention.
In appreciation, the community leaders and residents praised Dr. Takeme for his dedication through the exhaustive expending of time, energy, finances by paying countless visits to Tuomo, ensuring the prevalence of peace and justice. The Community Chairman, Mr. Warebi, assured the Council Boss that every member of the community would be carried along and vehemently stressed that this would be a time for reconciliation, not division.
Chief Arebebe Ebiyemi also expressed gratitude for the Chairman’s leadership and support for the people of Tuomo.
As part of his visit, Dr. Takeme announced the approval of the reconstruction of the Tuomo link road, a news that sparked off spontaneous celebration, singing, and dancing among the residents.
With calm fully restored and development projects on the horizon, the people had had a renewed hope for a peaceful and united future where justice would continue to prevail and be sustained.