Ex-Agitators Seek Ijaw Unity, Back New Leadership

Leaders of ex-agitators under the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) have called on Ijaw people and stakeholders across the Niger Delta to support the newly inaugurated leadership of the Ijaw National Congress led by Mac Donald Igbadiowei, describing the development as a step towards strengthening peace and unity in the Ijaw nation.

The call was made by the national chairman of PAP Phase 2, Ibena Rufus Salvation, who congratulated Igbadiowei and members of the new executive shortly after their inauguration.

Ibena said the emergence of the new leadership should mark the beginning of renewed cooperation and stability among Ijaw communities, urging leaders and youths to unite behind the congress.

He also commended prominent Ijaw leaders, including Government Ekpemupolo, Dennis Burutu Otuaro and Keston Pondi for their contributions towards peace, unity and development in the region.

“I also want to use this opportunity to thank High Chief Government Ekpemupolo a.k.a Tompolo, High Chief Dr Dennis Burutu Otuaro, the administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, High Chief Keston Pondi for their support, promotion, for fostering peace, unity in Ijaw nation and promoting Ijaw culture in Ijaw nation,” he said.

He described the inauguration of the new INC leadership as significant for the future of the Ijaw people, noting that unity among stakeholders remains important at a time of growing political and developmental concerns in the Niger Delta.

Ibena further urged all Ijaw leaders to rally round the new INC leadership to ensure stability and progress across the region.

“I advise every Ijaw leader to support Macdonald Igbadiowei, the INC President and further bring more peace and unity to Ijaw nation,” he added.

He also praised the immediate past INC President, Benjamin Okaba, for what he described as his commitment to truth and fairness during his time in office.

“I also want to use this opportunity to thank the outgoing president, Professor Benjamin Okaba for standing firm and standing by the truth because the meaning of Ijaw is truth. That is the truth. That is what Ijaw stands for and that is what is expected in Ijaw,” he stated.