Rivers Allocation: Ijaw nation blows hot on court Judgment

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has issued a warning to the Federal Government against withholding statutory allocations to Rivers State in line with a High Court ruling, stating that failure to comply could lead to severe repercussions. Professor Benjamin Okaba, president of the INC, delivered this message during the 10th Anniversary of the Ijaw Women Connect (IWC) in Warri, Delta State.

The Abuja High Court had ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt federal allocations to Rivers State’s local governments due to constitutional violations. Okaba urged President Bola Tinubu to handle the escalating crisis in Rivers State with caution, emphasizing that continued discrimination against Governor Siminalayi Fubara could provoke a strong reaction from the Ijaw community.

He characterized the court’s decision to suspend allocations as a provocative and unconstitutional act against the Niger Delta. Okaba warned that if the federal government continued its alleged assault on the governor, it would face consequences from the Ijaw nation. He quoted former governor Diepreye Alamieyeseigha, asserting that denial of the Ijaw people’s rights would eventually lead to revolt.

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Okaba advised the Ijaw people to remain calm despite the provocations, expressing confidence that the court ruling would ultimately be overturned. He praised the IWC for its role in advocating for the Ijaw nation and called for continued support among its members.

His Highness Godspower Tam Oporoma, Bayelsa State Commissioner for Ijaw National Affairs, refuted claims that Ijaw women are traditionally barred from engaging in socio-political discussions, affirming their rights to participate in all matters affecting them. He encouraged IWC members to remain empowered and active in civic affairs.

Dr. Vivian Dabota Ige Elenwo, president of the IWC, highlighted the organization’s mission to promote Ijaw women’s involvement in socio-political and economic issues. She paid tribute to the group’s founder, Mrs. Rosemary Aken John-Oduone, for her vision and leadership, celebrating the IWC’s achievements in empowerment and advocacy for Ijaw women across the nation.