The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has issued a stern demand for President Bola Tinubu's intervention following what they describe as inflammatory comments made by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike against Ijaw leaders and PANDEF.
In an official statement released yesterday, INC President Professor Benjamin Okaba highlighted growing tensions over what the organization views as a pattern of disrespectful behaviour by the FCT Minister. The statement particularly referenced Wike's recent media appearances where he allegedly made disparaging remarks about PANDEF and Ijaw leadership.
"Many of these distinguished elders had established themselves as prominent figures before Minister Wike completed his legal education," Okaba noted, underscoring the gravity of the perceived insult. He further emphasized that these leaders have contributed significantly to Nigeria's development and deserve respect regardless of political differences.
The organization expressed particular concern over what they characterized as Wike's apparent boasts about having presidential backing, though they questioned the veracity of such claims. "The Minister's conduct has crossed a critical line by insulting an entire ethnic nationality," the statement emphasized.
Sources close to the matter revealed that the tension has been building for several months, with multiple attempts at reconciliation failing to yield positive results. Community leaders from various Ijaw settlements across the Niger Delta region have reportedly held emergency meetings to discuss the situation.
The INC presented President Tinubu with what they termed a "crucial choice" between maintaining support from the Ijaw community, who they say have demonstrated loyalty to his administration, and backing the FCT Minister's controversial stance.
Chief Samuel Perekeme, a prominent Ijaw elder, speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, emphasized the historical significance of the Ijaw people in Nigeria's political landscape. "Our contributions to national development and political stability cannot be overlooked or disrespected," he stated.
The group warned that continued silence from the presidency could potentially lead to a reevaluation of their support for the current administration. They called for an immediate apology from Wike and appropriate presidential intervention to prevent further escalation of the situation.
"While we have shown considerable restraint thus far, there are limits to our patience," the statement concluded, highlighting the urgency of the matter. The INC has also announced plans to hold a broader stakeholders' meeting next week to discuss potential responses if their demands are not met.
Efforts to reach the FCT Minister's office for comment were unsuccessful as of press time. However, sources within the ministry suggested that an official response might be forthcoming in the next few days.
The situation continues to draw attention from political observers, with some analysts warning that the dispute could have broader implications for regional politics and stability in the Niger Delta region if not properly addressed.
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