Following the violence that characterised the September 14 Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Eastern Zone election in Abuloma, Rivers State, groups are at loggerheads over the outcome, accusing each other of masterminding the shooting....READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE ▶▶
While one faction called for the cancellation of the election, which they claimed was marred by violence and intimidation, the other group has similarly suspended two people, warning the public to be wary of them.
Yesterday, the 2024 IYC Eastern Zone Chairmanship candidate, Edward Asikitamunoprim, condemned what he described as “violence and intimidation” of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) election, calling for its cancellation.
In a press briefing in Port Harcourt, Asikitamunoprim described the election as a “sham,” alleging that delegates voted under fear and intimidation.
Reacting, the IYC Kalabari Se-Ikpangi in a communiqué issued after an extraordinary Elders/Stakeholders Council meeting, held in Obuama Community, Degema Local Council, debunked Asikitamunoprim claims.
PRESIDENT of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has lamented the tragedy, where scores of youths were feared dead and properties destroyed.
Addressing a press briefing at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, in Yenagoa, yesterday, Lokpobiri said that his stand against the imposition of candidates and demand for a level playing field for all candidates was misinterpreted by a section of leaders, who alleged that he was plotting to install a candidate that will be loyal to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and former Governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike.
Lokpobiri, who was accompanied by members of his executives and zonal and chapter chairmen, said that as IYC President, he had no interest in the election whatsoever, adding that he had warned all candidates and officials that they are bound under oath and moral obligation to support all Ijaw sons and daughters holding political offices.
