Ijaw progressives are accusing Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara, of trying to create a crisis within the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide. The allegations come after Fubara met with Dr. Theophilus Alaye, whom he referred to as the IYC President, during an official visit to the Government House on December 11, 2024.
The Watchdog for Progressive Ijaw (WPI), a group known for advocating for unity among the Ijaw people, expressed shock and disappointment over Fubara’s actions. According to the WPI, the governor’s recognition of Alaye as the IYC President is a serious error that could lead to further division within the council.
Tensions Deepen: WPI Slams Governor Fubara’s Actions
In a statement released on December 16, 2024, WPI Coordinator Lambert Olambo strongly criticized Fubara for what he described as a “height of indiscretion.” He accused the governor of fueling an already sensitive situation, where the IYC leadership is currently embroiled in a court dispute.
Olambo’s statement condemned Fubara’s decision to receive Alaye in the government house and refer to him as the IYC President. He said that by doing so, Fubara had betrayed the trust of the Ijaw people, who expected him to foster unity rather than sow discord.
Olambo argued that Fubara’s actions were irresponsible, claiming that the governor had failed to properly assess the situation within the IYC before taking such a controversial step. “As a governor, Fubara should have conducted due diligence and understood the internal issues of the IYC,” Olambo stated.
A Divisive Move: WPI Denies Crisis within IYC
The IYC has been embroiled in a leadership dispute, with Alaye and Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Jnr. both claiming the position of President. However, the WPI is firm in its stance that Lokpobiri remains the legitimate leader of the council.
According to the WPI, Lokpobiri was elected in a constitutionally valid congress and has been recognized by all major structures within the IYC and by key stakeholders in the Ijaw nation. Olambo pointed out that this fact should be clear to any leader, including Fubara.
“The only authentic and subsisting President of the IYC is Jonathan Lokpobiri,” Olambo declared. “Any other person parading as President is an impostor. The governor should have known this.”
Legal Challenges: The Court Battle Looms Over IYC Leadership
Compounding the situation is the ongoing legal battle regarding the legitimacy of Lokpobiri’s presidency. Theophilus Alaye has challenged Lokpobiri’s election in court, making the matter sub judice, or under judicial consideration. Olambo emphasized that until the court ruling is made, Lokpobiri must be recognized as the IYC President.
“It is only common sense that Lokpobiri should be treated as the current IYC President until the court delivers its judgment,” Olambo said. “For the governor to publicly refer to Alaye as the IYC President was reckless and provocative.”
Fubara’s Political Move: Allegations of Personal and Political Interests
The WPI also expressed disappointment in Fubara’s involvement in the dispute, suggesting that his actions may be driven by personal or political interests. The group warned that the IYC should not be dragged into the political turmoil in Rivers State.
“We are only disappointed that Governor Fubara has descended into this matter, perhaps for his own political convenience,” Olambo stated. “IYC is not a political organization and should not be used as a pawn in the political struggles of Rivers State.”
Olambo’s statement underscores the deepening frustration within the Ijaw community, with many feeling that the IYC’s internal matters should be resolved without interference from political leaders. The WPI’s message is clear: IYC must remain independent and focused on its goals of empowering Ijaw youths, rather than being caught up in the political battles of the day.
IYC in Crisis: Governor’s Role Under Scrutiny
As tensions mount between Governor Fubara and the Ijaw progressive groups, the situation remains volatile. The question now is whether the governor will continue to support Alaye or whether he will back away from his controversial stance and allow the IYC leadership to resolve its issues through lawful means.
For now, the Ijaw Youths Council is standing firm, with Jonathan Lokpobiri maintaining his position as the only legitimate President. It remains to be seen how the court will rule on the matter and whether Fubara will adjust his approach in light of the growing controversy.
