The Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI) has expressed grave disappointment over the recent publication by Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, former spokesperson of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), describing his accusations against the Government of Bayelsa State, His Excellency Governor Douye Diri, and senior security agents as reckless, distasteful, and shamefully self-serving.
In a solemn yet firm statement jointly signed by Hosea T. Ebikontei, Coordinator of MRAI, and Bomi Stanley, Secretary, the group noted with sadness that Ebilade, once seen as a rising voice in the struggle for the Ijaw nation, has now turned himself into a vessel of division, driven by political desperation and personal bitterness.
“We are deeply pained to witness how far Comrade Ebilade has fallen—from an advocate of Ijaw unity to a mouthpiece of political dishonour. His recent publication reeks of a man battling irrelevance, and rather than retreat in quiet reflection, he has chosen to stir public disaffection with wild and unfounded claims.”
The group urged Comrade Ebilade to take a pause and reflect on the damage his words cause; not just to individuals in government, but to the very soul of the Ijaw nation he once claimed to represent.
“It is heartbreaking to watch a man who once walked among respected voices of our struggle now stoop to peddle propaganda and conspiracy. Alleging the planting of weapons and orchestrated arrests without an iota of evidence is not bravery; it is dishonour. This is not activism; it is theatrical blackmail.”
MRAI warned that dragging the sacred Niger Delta struggle into the mud of political survival games not only undermines Ebilade’s past contributions, but also dishonours the memories of those who paid the ultimate price for the region’s dignity.
“We must ask Mr. Ebilade: What legacy are you trying to build—one of unity, or one of betrayal? How does insulting the Ijaw Nation and promoting divisiveness in the name of politics help the youth you once inspired?”
The group further noted that aligning with divisive elements and attacking the leadership of the Niger Delta with such venom only exposes Ebilade as a pawn in a game that cares little about Ijaw interest.
“We find it unfortunate that since Ebilade pitched his tent with those who ridicule our common cause, he has turned his back on truth, respect, and the virtue of silence when one’s heart is no longer in the right place. He may want to impress his new political masters, but he should do so without spitting on the heritage of his people.”
In closing, the MRAI extended a word of advice; not with malice, but from a place of deep concern:
“Power and popularity are fleeting, but integrity is eternal. We urge Comrade Ebilade to search his conscience, humble himself, and return to the path of honour. He may still find redemption in silence, apology, or sincere reawakening.”
The Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI) remains committed to peace, truth, and principled activism for the good of the Ijaw people and the wider Niger Delta.
