The recent state of emergency in Rivers State, declared by President Bola Tinubu, has stirred strong reactions within the Ijaw ethnic group. Professor Benjamin Okaba, the president of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), condemned the move, calling it a “slap” on the Ijaw people. As a result, the community plans to hold a meeting soon. During the meeting, they will discuss their future within Nigeria and consider various self-determination options.
Furthermore, Okaba criticized the quick decision to impose emergency rule. He argued that the president should have tried other options first. In his opinion, President Tinubu could have intervened earlier by addressing the role of Minister Nyesom Wike, who is seen as a key figure in the ongoing political crisis in the state.
Moreover, the INC president accused Wike of making several demands on Governor Siminalayi Fubara. These demands included taking control of local government areas and securing an agreement that Fubara would not run for office in 2027. In addition, Okaba claimed that Wike had disrespected the Ijaw community, both in Abuja and in Ijaw territories. Consequently, this had only fueled more tension.
Professor Okaba emphasized that the Ijaw people will gather to reflect on their experiences within Nigeria. They will also explore ways to assert their rights and gain more autonomy. Therefore, the meeting’s outcome could shape the Ijaw community’s future and significantly affect the political landscape of the Niger Delta.
In conclusion, the INC’s stance highlights ongoing frustrations among ethnic groups in the region. Many feel the need for greater control over their resources and more autonomy within the Nigerian federation. Thus, the decisions made at the stakeholders’ meeting could significantly impact the Ijaw community’s path forward.
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