Governor Obaseki Neglected Ijaw People, Says IYC Chairman Igarama

As pressure mounts ahead of the September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone has labeled outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki a failure.

The IYC Western Zone Chairman, Nicholas Igarama, described Obaseki as a leader who failed to keep his promises and deliberately neglected the developmental needs of the Ijaw people in Edo State.

Igarama made these remarks while addressing journalists on Friday, stating that the Ijaws have been repeatedly neglected in areas of development and political recognition, despite the pivotal role they played in bringing the Obaseki administration to power.

“The Ijaw territory, which accounts for the state’s oil revenue and contributes significantly to Edo’s federal allocation, is perpetually relegated to second fiddle compared to other areas,” Igarama said.

“We are very much aware that our development has been politicized by the Obaseki-led administration, and we will not sit idly by and ignore the truth.”

“The Ijaws in Edo are suffering like slaves in our own state, with the Oba of Benin leading the conspiracy by even refusing to grant staff of office to our most revered royal fathers,” he added.

Igarama further urged the Ijaw people to refrain from voting for political opportunists and those who are under the influence of the Oba of Benin.

“Let us (Ijaws) support and enthrone a new leadership that will have the political will to prioritize the welfare and development of our people and our areas,” he advised.

Igarama also noted that Edo State needs a governor with the magnanimity of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is “fast-tracking development in Ijaw areas across the Niger Delta.”

In conclusion, he urged the people to cast their votes peacefully and defend their territories to ensure that an Ijaw-friendly governor is voted into power for the betterment of the community.