Diri Advises Delay on INC New Executive Inauguration

Douye Diri, the Governor of Bayelsa State, has issued a statement advising the outgoing executive committee of the Ijaw Nation Congress (INC), led by Professor Benjamin Okaba, to shelve the inauguration of a new executive scheduled for May 14, 2026. This decision, communicated through Chief Press Secretary Daniel Alabrah, stems from legal concerns regarding the recent purported election of a new executive.

Diri emphasized that the INC, as a prominent socio-cultural organization of the Ijaw nation, should prioritize unity and resolution of disputes rather than hastily proceeding with leadership changes. He expressed concern that the actions taken without proper consent could create confusion and division within the Ijaw community.

The governor urged stakeholders to tread cautiously and focus on resolving the ongoing crisis related to the INC leadership, which is currently subject to litigation, highlighting the importance of maintaining harmony and unity among the Ijaw people.