Defections: Ijaw nation urged to remain calm, united, strategic amid political defections.

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has called on all Ijaw sons and daughters to remain calm, united, and strategic in the face of the recent wave of political defections across Nigeria, particularly in Bayelsa State, regarded as the epicentre of the Ijaw homeland.

In a statement issued by its President, Professor Benjamin Okaba, the INC noted that while it remained a non-partisan body that does not dictate the political choices of individuals, it is deeply concerned about the implications of the current political realignments for the unity, stability, and long-term strategic interests of the Ijaw nation.

Professor Okaba also acknowledged that while political alignments are part of democratic dynamics, the speed and pattern of recent defections pose potential risks.

He further said some Ijaw leaders and observers fear that the shift could erode the group’s political leverage and identity by effectively aligning the Ijaw people with a single dominant party, thereby weakening their ability to negotiate strategically between competing political blocs at the national level.

According to him, “The trend could contribute to the emergence of a de facto one-party dominance, which may reduce the Ijaw’s capacity to bargain for fair representation and could foster internal divisions and ideological confusion within the Ijaw political class.

“There is a genuine fear that our people might lose the unique political identity that has always defined our struggle for justice and equity.

“We must guard against any situation that makes the Ijaw nation politically captive to any single entity or dilutes the values that form the core of our collective struggle, ” he added.

At the same time, the INC leader acknowledged the views of those who consider the realignment a strategic repositioning aimed at achieving greater national integration and inclusion.

He also said, proponents of this view believe that joining forces with the ruling party could move the Ijaw nation from the “periphery of opposition” to the “center of national collaboration.”

He said the move could open new doors for development, resource allocation, and federal presence in the Niger Delta.

“To the optimists, this shift could help end decades of political isolation and allow the Ijaw people to participate more directly in national governance.

“It could enhance access to federal infrastructure, bring about the long-demanded development of our terrain, and give our leaders a seat at the table where key policies on oil, the environment, and security are decided, ” Okaba said.

In light of these divergent perspectives, the INC urged all Ijaw people to exercise restraint, avoid internal conflict, and focus on the collective interest of the nation.

“We call for utmost calm, strategic reflection, and unity among our people.

“Let no one allow temporary political alignments to sow discord or animosity in our communities. The peace and stability of the Ijaw nation are non-negotiable, ” he said.

Okaba reminded Ijaw politicians that their ultimate allegiance must be to the Ijaw people, not to any political platform or figure.

“Political parties are vehicles for advancement, but the destination must always be the empowerment and protection of the Ijaw nation.

“We must never sacrifice our collective destiny on the altar of personal ambition or short-term advantage,” said.

The INC President also emphasised the importance of preserving the Ijaw nation’s independent political voice, which he described as its most powerful bargaining tool within the Nigerian federation.

He warned that the Ijaw must be strategic and discerning, ensuring that their political choices do not weaken their collective influence or undermine their advocacy for justice and equity.

“History has shown that our strength lies in our distinct and formidable political voice.

“We must ensure that our decisions strengthen, rather than diminish, our relevance in national affairs, ” Okaba said.

Okaba reaffirmed that unity remained the foundation of Ijaw progress.

He said the INC would continue to serve as a neutral platform for dialogue among all political tendencies to ensure the Ijaw nation remains strong and cohesive.

He also warned external actors against exploiting current political movements to cause disunity within Ijaw ranks.

“This is a time to close ranks, not to create factions. External forces must not be allowed to sow seeds of discord in our house.”

The INC’s statement further observed that the political defections, in themselves, are not as significant as what follows them.

According to Okaba, the development presents a test of political wisdom and execution for Ijaw leadership.

The eventual outcome, he said, would depend on how well leaders can unify the people, leverage proximity to power, and protect the core interests of the Ijaw nation.

He outlined key imperatives to include achieve Internal Cohesion by bringing together all political factions both within and outside the ruling party to build a common front.

Leveraging access effectively by translating new political connections into tangible benefits for the wider Ijaw population, not just for a privileged few.

Protecting core interests by ensuring that critical issues such as environmental justice, resource control, and equitable representation are advanced from within the system.

According to him, the benefits are not automatic, and the risks are not inevitable. What matters is how skillfully we navigate this moment.

Okaba reiterated that the Ijaw struggle for justice and equity transcended any political party or administration.

“The Ijaw nation is greater than any single political party or individual.

”Our quest for justice and inclusion in the Nigerian project is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires patience, unity, and strategic focus, ” he said.

He assured that the INC would continue to provide guidance and leadership throughout this period of political transition, urging all Ijaw socio-cultural groups, youth organizations, women’s bodies, and traditional rulers to join hands in pursuing the collective interest.

“The Ijaw spirit is unbreakable,” he affirmed. Let us face this season with the wisdom of our ancestors and the courage that defines us, ” he added.