By Emem Idio, Yenagoa

YENAGOA -The Council of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE) has defended its decision to suspend forthwith the election into the executive positions of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), insisting on the guiding principles of the INC Constitution.

The Chairman of CITRE, HRM, King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, Chairman of Bayelsa Traditional Rulers Council, in a statement on Saturday entitled ‘’On Constitutional Process and the INC Electoral Timeline’’ while noting the communications by various organs of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) concerning the forthcoming national elections, restated its position on the suspension of the election until all pending petitions arising from the elections are resolved.

CITRE stated that its action was guided by the INC Constitution and its responsibility to uphold order, balance, and continuity within the Congress.

According to King Dakolo, CITRE does not engage in the administrative conduct of elections, but it would ensure that all processes within the Congress must remain consistent with the Constitution from which they derive authority.

CITRE pointed out that where questions arise as to the constitutional integrity of any process, it is necessary that such questions are addressed within the institutional framework provided in order to preserve legitimacy and confidence.

It added that it was the context that informed CITRE’s constitution of a committee to review outstanding constitutional and procedural concerns relating to the electoral process.

CITRE assured that it remains committed to ensuring that the Congress continues to function within a framework that commands confidence, legitimacy, and order, adding that stakeholders must abide by procedures, and the constitution is unambiguous about what to do.

The statement read in part: ‘’Accordingly, CITRE reiterates that the electoral process remains in abeyance pending the Committee’s report. This position is guided solely by the need to preserve the integrity of a process under review. This does not detract from the roles of other organs of Congress. It affirms that constitutional compliance is foundational and that processes under review are best preserved until their validity is clarified.

‘’CITRE therefore urges all organs and stakeholders of Congress to act in a manner that supports institutional coherence, respects established processes, and avoids actions that may pre-empt or compromise ongoing efforts at doing things constitutionally. The Committee is expected to conclude its work within the stipulated timeframe, after which CITRE will consider its recommendations in the overall interest of the Ijaw Nation.”