The Ijaw Nation has issued a strong warning to the federal government, declaring its resolve to resist any attempt to silence or marginalize its people. Representatives from Egbama, Gbaramatu, Isaba, and Ogbe-Ijoh in Delta and Edo states condemned the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, describing it as a deliberate attack on the Ijaw people and a continuation of historical oppression.
In a joint statement, the representatives recalled how former President Goodluck Jonathan, an Ijaw man, was removed from office eight years ago, reducing the Ijaw people’s influence in national politics. They warned that they would not stand by and allow Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the first Ijaw governor of Rivers State, to be disgraced in a similar manner.
The group accused the federal government of deliberately sidelining the Ijaw Nation while benefiting from its resources. They pointed out that despite the Niger Delta’s role as Nigeria’s economic backbone, the federal government refuses to appoint an Ijaw person as Minister of Petroleum, instead offering the region a junior ministerial position with no real influence.
They vowed to resist these injustices, warning that if their grievances continue to be ignored, they will take strategic action to cripple the economy just as the federal government has crippled their state. They accused the government of hoarding its own resources—such as gold and livestock—while ensuring that Ijaw oil is shared among all, yet denying Ijaw people political power.
The statement called on all Ijaw people, including those from Bomadi, Patani, Burutu, Ondo, Uvwie, Udu, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Lagos, and the diaspora, to unite and defend their land. The representatives emphasized that the Ijaw Nation is not a minority and will no longer allow itself to be treated as one.
They issued a stern warning that unless Governor Fubara is allowed to complete his tenure without further harassment, they will take drastic measures. They promised to take control of their resources and resist any further political oppression.
The statement was signed by Comr. Tamaradenyeifa Iroroyekenigha, Ogbe-Ijoh Representative, Mr. Emizibo Seiyefa, Egbama Representative, Comr. Ayibatari Tarila, Isaba Representative, Comr. Binatari Ekpokememi, Gbaramatu Representative, Sir Fetiemo Ebiwari, Bomadi Representative, Mr. Kemepade Adibobouegbe, Burutu Representative, and Comr. Faafa Peibolu, Patani Representative.
