The Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI) has made a heartfelt appeal to Professor Benjamin Okaba, President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), to formally recognise seven ancient clans within the Arogbo Kingdom under the INC framework. According to MRAI, these clans have played a significant role in the cultural and socio-political development of the Ijaw nation. The MRAI’s appeal emphasises the importance of acknowledging the historical presence and contributions of these clans, which have long been integral to the Ijaw Nation.
The recognition of these clans would not only affirm their identity and rights but also align with the INC’s foundational values of unity, peace, and progress. The MRAI’s appeal is a call to action for the INC leadership to take a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Ijaw people.
Read the full text of the open letter below:
OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT, IJAW NATIONAL CONGRESS (INC), PROFESSOR BENJAMIN OKABA
Appeal for Formal Recognition of Arogbo Clans within the INC Organisational Structure
Dear Professor Okaba,
Greetings in the spirit of Ijaw unity, peace, and progress. On behalf of the Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI) and the broader Arogbo-Ijaw people, we respectfully appeal for your kind attention and leadership in approving the formal recognition of several ancient clans within the Arogbo Kingdom in the structure of the Ijaw National Congress (INC).
The clans in question are:
1. Ajapa Clan
2. Olomuturu Clan
3. Biagini Clan
4. Awodikuro Clan
5. Ogidigba Clan
6. Ukpe Clan
7. Bolouwo Clan
These clans are deeply rooted in ancestral bloodlines, traditions, cultural practices, and history. They have contributed significantly to the development of Arogbo-Ibe and the wider Ijaw nation. Yet, their formal recognition within the INC has not been actualised.
Our appeal is founded on justice, equity, and the preservation of our collective Ijaw heritage. We seek fairness and inclusion, not special treatment. Recognising these clans will affirm their identity and rights, aligning with the INC’s foundational values.
We kindly request that you and the INC leadership visit the Arogbo Kingdom to engage with our traditional institutions, elders, and stakeholders. This visit will verify the authenticity and historical presence of these clans, paving the way for timely approval and further unifying our people.
We remain committed to peaceful advocacy and constructive dialogue. We believe the INC, under your stewardship, can set a lasting precedent for inclusive leadership that embraces all corners of Ijawland without bias.
With highest regards,
E-signed:
Hosea T. Ebikontei
Coordinator, Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI)
Bomi Stanley
Secretary, Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI)
19th July, 2025
