News
CIIG Rejects Planned INC Inauguration, Warns of Deepening Leadership Crisis
The Coalition of Ijaw Interest Groups (CIIG) has warned against any attempt to inaugurate a new leadership for the Ijaw National Congress (INC), describing the proposed swearing-in ceremony as unconstitutional and illegal.
In a statement issued to journalists, the coalition, alongside concerned Ijaw stakeholders, argued that proceeding with the inauguration would violate existing court orders, provisions of the INC constitution, and resolutions reached by relevant authorities following the disputed April 13, 2026 election.
According to the group, the leadership crisis within the INC has escalated into what it described as a constitutional, moral, and institutional emergency capable of undermining the credibility and future of the organisation.
“The ongoing crisis has moved beyond an ordinary lapse in leadership but has now become a profound constitutional, moral, and institutional emergency threatening the soul and future credibility of the organization,” the statement read.
CIIG accused the outgoing INC leadership under Benjamin Okaba of disregarding directives issued by the National Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (N-CITRE), including a resolution reached on April 10, 2026, which reportedly suspended all electoral activities in line with the INC 2019 Constitution.
The coalition further claimed that appeals and interventions by Douye Diri and other prominent Ijaw elders were ignored by those overseeing the process.
CIIG also expressed concern over alleged attempts to invoke the governor’s name without authorisation in a bid to legitimise the disputed process.
“Any leadership emerging from the disputed process would lack the moral, constitutional, and representative legitimacy required to speak on behalf of the Ijaw people,” the coalition stated.
The group alleged that many of those behind the factionalisation efforts originated from the western zone, the same region as Prof. Okaba, warning that such actions could have serious implications for the unity of the organisation.
CIIG urged N-CITRE to take immediate steps to restore constitutional order within the INC to prevent what it described as the possible collapse of the organisation.
It also warned that failure to resolve the crisis could result in the emergence of an alternative body to represent Ijaw interests.
The coalition called on Ijaw stakeholders worldwide, including traditional rulers, elders, youth groups, women organisations, and civil society groups, to defend the integrity of the INC and reject sectional domination.
The group further appealed to the outgoing leadership to respect constituted authorities and refrain from conducting any swearing-in ceremony.
The statement was signed by several prominent Ijaw figures, including Annkio Briggs, Iniruo Wills, Ben Okoro, Efiye Bribena, Chief Denzil Kentebe, Elaye Otrofanowei, Pattison Boleigha, Mrs. Rosemary John-Oduone, Ebitimi Egbunukumoh, and Yimovie Sakue-Collins.
The INC remains the apex socio-cultural organisation of the Ijaw people and has historically championed issues relating to resource control, environmental justice, and minority rights in the Niger Delta region.
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Lagos State Government has intensified enforcement actions against street begging, destitution, cart pushers and buyers of condemned goods, while also reinforcing the existing ban on commercial motorcycle (Okada) operations as part of its environmental and security management strategy.
The exercise, which took place on June 10, 2026, was overseen by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources, led by Commissioner Tokunbo Wahab, under the supervision of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Authorities said affected individuals were relocated from Lagos streets to their respective states of origin, though the state government has not released official figures on the number of persons involved.
The enforcement has generated public debate, with some commentators praising the move as a step toward restoring order and addressing urban safety concerns. Public affairs commentator Dr. Zainab Suleiman Buhari described the operation as a “bold step,” urging other state governments to adopt similar approaches while emphasizing that interventions should remain humane and legally guided.
She also called for broader reforms in northern Nigeria, including improved access to education, skills development programmes, and economic empowerment initiatives to reduce street begging and child vulnerability. However, she stressed that poverty should be addressed through policy reforms rather than stigma.The Lagos State Government maintains that the exercise is part of ongoing efforts to improve public sanitation, safety and compliance with existing regulations.
By Okechukwu Keshi Ukegbu
A campaign slogan by House of Representatives aspirant for Obingwa, Osisioma Ngwa and Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency, Solomon Akpulonu, has drawn reflection on the nature of political power and divine authority. The slogan, “Ikemsinachi,” translated as “my power comes from God,” is described by the writer as a reminder that authority and promotion are ultimately determined by God, rather than human effort alone.
Referencing biblical texts including Psalm 62:11 and Psalm 75:6–7, the author argues that leadership positions are not solely the result of ambition or strategy, but are shaped by divine will. The reflection also urges political actors and aspirants to embrace humility in their pursuit of office, cautioning against excessive ambition and self-reliance. It further emphasizes the importance of integrity, moderation, and service-oriented leadership.
Drawing from additional scriptural references such as James 4:14–16, the piece highlights the uncertainty of life and the need for individuals to acknowledge the limitations of human plans. The author concludes that Akpulonu’s slogan should serve as a broader moral lesson for political actors ahead of future elections, encouraging them to prioritize humility, purpose, and a recognition of divine authority in leadership aspirations.
By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Ibeno Clan Council has called on the Akwa Ibom State Government and security agencies to investigate a publication it says misrepresented the community’s position on the proposed BUA Refinery Project in Ibeno Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Monday in Upenekang and signed by the Council Secretary, Chief Okon Udofia, the council said the report created the impression that Ibeno residents oppose the refinery project and other investments in the area.
According to the council, such narratives could negatively affect the community’s reputation and potentially discourage investment in Akwa Ibom State.The council expressed concern over what it described as efforts to portray Ibeno as hostile to development, particularly at a time when the state government is seeking to attract major investments.
It urged authorities to examine the publication and determine whether it represented a personal opinion or a broader attempt to create tension between Ibeno and neighbouring communities.The council also requested that the author of the publication be invited by relevant authorities to clarify the claims made and the interests represented in the report.
Reaffirming its support for development initiatives, the council stated that Ibeno has consistently welcomed investments and described the BUA Refinery Project as a strategic development with potential benefits for the host community, Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
The statement further pledged continued cooperation with the state government and other stakeholders to maintain a peaceful environment for investment and economic growth. The council also urged residents and stakeholders to promote unity and avoid actions or narratives that could undermine peace and development in the state.
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