The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has condemned recent comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing the Ijaw people as a “minority of minorities” in Rivers and other South-South states, except Bayelsa.
The INC has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and caution Wike over his remarks. According to the INC, Wike’s comments are not only inaccurate but also provocative, given his eight-year tenure as governor of Rivers.
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The INC expects Wike to have a more informed understanding of the state’s history and the Ijaw people’s significance in the region. The INC emphasized that the Ijaw people are the fourth largest ethnic group in Nigeria, with over 40 million people, and the oldest tribe in Nigeria, as documented in history.
They are also the largest ethnic group in Rivers, with eight local government areas, and not a minority in Delta. The INC stated that they will maintain peace and stability, despite Wike’s provocative remarks. However, they called on President Tinubu to caution Wike and redirect his focus to his ministerial duties.
The INC remains committed to preserving the harmony enjoyed by all in the Niger Delta region. They have consistently advocated for fairness and equity in the region and the South-South, and will not be swayed by individual attempts to provoke them.
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The INC’s National Publicity Secretary, Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, emphasized that Wike’s comments are unacceptable and require presidential intervention. He urged President Tinubu to take immediate action to address the situation and prevent further escalation.
