Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, on Friday attended the non-elective convention of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), declaring that his administration is not backing any candidate in the congress’ leadership election.
The convention held at Ijaw House in Yenagoa brought together political leaders, traditional rulers and stakeholders of the Ijaw nation.
Speaking at the event, Diri urged the electoral committee to conduct a free, fair and transparent election, while advising aspirants not to treat the contest as a “do-or-die affair.”
“Since this race started, I have consciously and deliberately denied every contestant from seeing me. Let me declare here that I have no candidate,” the governor said.
He added that all contestants were known to him and deserved equal opportunity in the process.
“As a father, all the contestants are well known to me. I wish them all good luck.”
Diri said the gathering provided an opportunity for the Ijaw people to reflect on their shared aspirations and strengthen unity.
“Today, we are here in this convention to chart a course for our collective future and renew our ideals and aspirations that have sustained our people through generations,” he stated.
The governor also commended the outgoing leadership of the INC, led by Benjamin Okaba, for its stewardship and achievements.
“Let me appreciate the outgoing President and members of the executive council of INC for their sagacity and leadership. It is not a small feat to make the Ijaw nation have a permanent seat at the United Nations Unrepresented People Organization,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the congress’ leadership and electoral committee would ensure a credible process.
“I want to believe the President and the electoral committee will ensure open, transparent, free and fair elections, and the contestants will abide by the rules and guidelines.”
Dignitaries at the event included the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Abraham Ingobere; former Deputy Governor Peremobowei Ebebi; Secretary to the State Government, Nimibofa Ayawei; Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Bayelsa, Warman Ogoriba; Acting Chief of Staff, Irorodamie Komonibo; commissioners, local government chairmen and other government officials.
Also present were the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Council of Traditional Rulers, Bubaraye Dakolo, other traditional rulers and prominent leaders of the Ijaw nation.
