Tensions Rise in Bayelsa as Benedicta Dinini Isaac Responds to Alleged Threats Linked to IYC Leadership
By Passman Akpos
Bayelsa, Nigeria — A fresh wave of tension has erupted within the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) circles after a social media post by Benedicta Dinini Isaac appeared to accuse members of the group of intimidation and threats.
In a post widely circulated on Tuesday, Isaac directly mentioned several IYC figures, including Samuel Moses Lokpobiri, Alaibiye Yei, and Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, the President of the Ijaw Youth Council International (IYCI).
“Hmmm, Alaibiye Yei continue. IYC dey shack you hmm. Samuel Moses Lokpobiri, I am not afraid. Make una encourage am very well. Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, President of the IYCI, I know you’re seeing all this, because you complained about the video I made. Alaibiye is one of your closest boys,” Isaac wrote.
She went on to accuse the IYCI leadership of silence in the face of alleged harassment, suggesting that the lack of action from Lokpobiri implied tacit approval of the conduct of his associates.
“For not calling him to order till this moment has said a lot about your take. I’m still waiting for him and his boys, which are all your boys. No one can shut me up wrongly. Without fear and favour, I stand on my existing protocols. You can’t shut everyone up,” she declared.
The comments come amid reports of deepening internal disputes within the IYC structure, with several members publicly expressing dissatisfaction over recent actions and statements by the leadership.
As of press time, neither the IYCI President nor the individuals named in Isaac’s post had issued a response. However, the statement has sparked heated reactions across social media, with supporters calling for restraint and a peaceful resolution to the growing rift.
Observers warn that unless the situation is quickly addressed, the disagreement could further divide the influential youth organization, which has long played a critical role in the Niger Delta’s sociopolitical landscape.
