The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has expressed deep concern over the recent surge in political defections sweeping across Nigeria, with a particular focus on Bayelsa State, the heartland of the Ijaw Nation.
While reaffirming its position as a non-partisan socio-cultural body, the INC emphasized that the rapid realignment of political loyalties, especially among key figures in Bayelsa, could have serious implications for the unity, stability, and long-term strategic interests of the Ijaw people.
In a statement on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, acknowledged public concern that mass defections, particularly into the ruling party could potentially reduce the Ijaw Nation’s ability to negotiate from a position of strength within Nigeria’s political system.
Okaba said, “the risk of being absorbed into a de facto one-party structure poses a danger to our strategic leverage. It could also cause ideological confusion, dilute our political identity, and weaken our ability to act collectively.”
The INC warned that such developments could inadvertently make the Ijaw people politically captive, limiting their ability to influence national discourse from an independent or balanced standpoint. However, the group also acknowledged that many Ijaw leaders view the political shifts as a strategic move aimed at ending decades of political isolation and positioning the Ijaw Nation closer to the center of federal power.
“Supporters of this view argue that aligning with the federal government could bring significant economic benefits, including the long-overdue development of critical infrastructure in the Niger Delta, such as roads, ports, and power projects.
“Furthermore, proximity to national decision-making could allow Ijaw leaders to more directly influence policies on oil revenue, environmental justice, and regional security.”
In response to the unfolding political situation, the INC called for restraint, wisdom, and unity among all Ijaw people, regardless of party affiliation.
“We urge our sons and daughters not to be swayed by the transient winds of political expediency. Let us not allow these developments to breed division or animosity within our communities. The peace and stability of the Ijaw Nation must remain paramount.”
The Congress emphasized that “what happens after the defections will be more important than the defections themselves. This period presents a major test of political maturity and coordination.”
Reaffirming its commitment to the Ijaw cause, the INC declared that no individual or political party is bigger than the Ijaw Nation, noting that the journey toward justice, equity, and fair inclusion, remained ongoing and requires patience, unity, and foresight.
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Further, the congress called on all arms of Ijaw society, including traditional rulers, youth organizations, women leaders, and other cultural bodies to rally together and embrace a strategic, people-centered approach to the changing political landscape.
“The Ijaw spirit is unbreakable. Let us face this moment with the courage of our ancestors and the wisdom to secure our future.”
