Urges Diri, Others to Mediate for Harmony

By Samuel Oyadongha, Yenagoa

The National Representative Council (NRC) of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has passed a vote of confidence on the Justice Francis Tabai-led National Electoral Committee, which conducted the April 13, 2026, National Executive Council (NEC) elections of the socio-cultural organisation.

The NRC is the legislative arm of the apex Ijaw socio-cultural body.

Speaking during a valedictory plenary, council members praised the electoral umpire for conducting what they described as free, fair, and credible polls, noting that nothing less was expected.

According to the council, the chairman of the electoral committee and its members demonstrated a high level of professionalism and impartiality in carrying out their assignment.

They added that members of the electoral body remain among the most sincere and disciplined individuals in the Ijaw nation.

Addressing a recent letter allegedly from the office of the outgoing National Secretary of the INC, which purportedly discredited the polls, NRC Leader, His Royalty (Dr) Anyanate Kio, condemned the move.

He said the letter did not have the backing of the Congress or the INC President, describing it instead as a product of the “wishful thinking” of the incumbent National Secretary, who was also a candidate in the election.

“Yes, elections have come and gone. The electoral committee did a great job by conducting not only a free and fair election, but also by enhancing the credibility of the system through electronic voting,” Kio said.

“As members of the NRC, we acknowledge that no election anywhere in the world is entirely perfect. We commend the National Council of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (N-CITRE) for playing a fatherly role in the process.

“We are confident that the Governor-General of the Ijaw nation, Senator Douye Diri, and other stakeholders will work toward resolving the grey areas and contending issues arising from the elections.”

Kio added that part of the council’s resolutions at the plenary was to recognise members for their contributions over the past four years, noting that certificates of excellent participation would be awarded accordingly.