REPORT-​TO:-Stakeholders-of the-Ijaw-National-Congress-(INC)

SOECIAL REPORT ON THE INC PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES

​TO: Stakeholders of the Ijaw National Congress (INC)

FROM: Dave Ikiedei Asei {CEO)                         Wisdom Tide 

DATE: February 6, 2026

SUBJECT: Analytical Overview of the 2026 National Elective Convention

​1. Executive Summary

​The Ijaw National Congress (INC) is set to hold its national elective convention on March 7, 2026, at the "Ijaw House" in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. This convention marks a pivotal moment for the Ijaw nation—Nigeria’s fourth-largest ethnic group—as it transitions from traditional advocacy to a modernized leadership structure. The election serves as a referendum on how the Ijaw people will engage with contemporary challenges, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the adoption of E-Voting technology.

​2. Historical Context and Strategic Importance

​The INC has historically functioned as the intellectual and political vanguard for the Niger Delta. Its legacy is rooted in landmark movements such as the Willink Commission (1957) and the Kaiama Declaration (1998). The upcoming election is not merely an administrative exercise but a strategic selection of leadership capable of navigating the shift toward a digital era while preserving the cultural soul of the Ijaw people.

​3. Profiles of the Aspirants

​The following six leaders have emerged as the primary contenders for the INC leadership, each representing a distinct vision for the future of the Ijaw nation:

​Dr. Alabo Tonye Igoni A seasoned technocrat with extensive experience in public policy, Dr. Igoni emphasizes "Institutional Resilience." His platform focuses on restructuring the INC’s internal governance to ensure the Ijaw nation has a unified and professional voice when negotiating with federal authorities and multinational oil corporations.

​Chief (Engr.) Biu Akpoebi An advocate for "Economic Autonomy," Chief Akpoebi brings a background in the energy sector. He proposes a transition from grievance-based advocacy to economic participation, specifically focusing on empowering Ijaw communities through the frameworks provided by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

​Barrister Ebiere Gaba As a prominent legal mind and human rights advocate, Barrister Gaba’s vision centers on "Justice and Legal Redress." She aims to utilize international and domestic legal instruments to address environmental degradation and ensure that the "E-Voting" process remains transparent and inclusive for all Ijaw sub-clans.

​High Chief Pere-Otu Ogbonna A traditionalist who bridges the gap between the ancient ways and modern politics, High Chief Ogbonna campaigns on the "Restoration of Heritage." He argues that the Ijaw soul can only be preserved by strengthening the roles of traditional rulers and ensuring that digital transformation does not erode the group's cultural identity.

​Comrade Tari Tari-Wayas Representing the youth and grassroots activists, Comrade Tari-Wayas focuses on "Digital Transformation and Youth Inclusivity." He is a vocal proponent of the E-Voting system and advocates for a technological overhaul of the INC to engage the younger generation of Ijaws in the diaspora and across the Niger Delta.

​Ambassador Diepreye Bina A former diplomat, Ambassador Bina views the INC through the lens of "Global Diplomacy." His profile is built on the belief that the Ijaw struggle must be internationalized, seeking partnerships with global environmental organizations to bring worldwide attention to the socio-economic needs of the Ijaw people.

​4. Conclusion

​The March 7 elective convention represents a crossroads between tradition and transformation. The selection of any of these six aspirants will significantly influence the trajectory of the Ijaw nation’s relationship with the Nigerian state and the global community.

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