The Secretary-General of the Ijaw Youth Council Worldwide, Maobuye Obu, has faulted recent remarks credited to the IYC President, Jonathan Lokpobiri, regarding the political situation in Rivers State.
Lokpobiri, while speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting organised by Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited in Port Harcourt, had suggested that the Ijaw people could have done more to prevent the escalation of the crisis in Rivers, which has raised concerns about possible emergency rule.
However, in a statement issued on Monday, Obu described the comments as “unfortunate” and not reflective of the collective efforts of Ijaw leaders and stakeholders who have consistently advocated peaceful dialogue to address the crisis.
He said the IYC leadership should remain neutral and objective in matters of regional and political interest, especially during sensitive times.
According to him, leaders of the Ijaw nation and members of the Pan Niger Delta Forum have made several efforts to mediate in the Rivers political dispute, including holding consultations with President Bola Tinubu and key political actors.
Obu expressed disappointment that Lokpobiri’s comments did not acknowledge these interventions.
He urged the IYC President to provide balanced perspectives that align with the aspirations of the Ijaw people, rather than statements that may be interpreted as divisive.
“The remarks made in Port Harcourt failed to highlight the collaborative steps taken by our leaders to maintain peace in Rivers State. Rather than apportioning blame, what is needed at this time is continued unity and a stronger collective voice in support of democratic ideals and justice,” Obu said.
