BAYELSA GOVERNOR RECONCILES IYC FACTIONS AHEAD OF 2026 CONVENTION
Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has brought together various factions of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide in a renewed push for unity ahead of the council’s 2026 elective convention.
The governor convened an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting in Yenagoa, where IYC leaders and stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to peace, reconciliation and the progress of the Ijaw nation.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Diri urged stakeholders to place the collective interest of the Ijaw people above personal ambitions and avoid actions capable of creating division within the organisation.
According to him, “As we prepare for the 2026 IYC elective convention, it is important that we place the interest of our people above personal ambitions and avoid every tendency that could lead to division. We must continue to build bridges, not walls.”
The governor also encouraged IYC leaders to embrace love, reconciliation and mutual respect, stressing that a united Ijaw nation is better positioned to achieve its aspirations.
“A united Ijaw nation is stronger, more influential, and better positioned to pursue our collective aspiration as a people,” he said.
A major highlight of the meeting was the reconciliation between Jonathan Lokpobiri and Theophilus Alaye, with both leaders agreeing to put their differences aside in the interest of the IYC and the Ijaw nation.
Governor Diri commended the development, saying, “Their decision to embrace peace and put the past behind them is a commendable step that should inspire every Ijaw son and daughter to choose dialogue over discord.”
Reaffirming the need for sustained unity, the governor urged stakeholders to preserve the legacy of the IYC through peaceful engagement and collective action.
“The Ijaw nation can only attain greater heights when we stand together with one voice and one purpose. Let us continue to promote unity, and preserve the legacy of the IYC, for peace, stability, and development of our people,” he stated.
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