Breaking:Leadership Dispute Rocks Ijaw Community in Ughelli as Rival Claims Emerge
By Passman Akpos
Ughelli, Delta State — Fresh controversy has erupted within the Ijaw community in Ughelli following conflicting claims over the position of President General, casting doubt on reports of a recent “peaceful election” that allegedly produced a new leader.
In a strongly worded public clarification, stakeholders aligned with the existing leadership structure dismissed reports that Godspower Mabiko Duff has emerged as President General, describing the narrative as “misleading” and inconsistent with realities on ground.
According to the statement, Dr. Odogwu Fonakpo O. remains the duly recognized President of the Ughelli Zone Ijaw Community. The group emphasized that no legitimate transition has taken place and warned that any claims suggesting otherwise are “invalid and not recognized by the legitimate body.”
Disputed Election Process
Central to the dispute is the credibility of the process that reportedly produced Duff. The clarification insists that no transparent or widely accepted election occurred, alleging that the exercise was disrupted and failed to provide a fair platform for stakeholders and community members.
“The so-called peaceful election did not happen,” the statement asserted, adding that the process lacked inclusiveness and legitimacy.
Allegations of Misrepresentation
The situation has been further complicated by accusations that facts surrounding the event have been distorted. The statement expressed concern that an individual allegedly linked to the disruption is now being portrayed as the product of a credible electoral process.
Observers say this sharp contradiction highlights deep divisions within the community, with competing factions pushing conflicting narratives about leadership and legitimacy.
Call for Due Process
Community leaders backing the current administration stressed that leadership within the Ijaw Ughelli Zone must be determined through established structures, due process, and broad consensus—not media reports or “sponsored publications.”
They urged the public to disregard what they described as misleading reports until a transparent and widely accepted process is conducted.
Earlier Reports Paint Different Picture
The clarification comes in direct response to earlier reports celebrating Duff’s emergence as a “historic victory” that sparked unity and hope across Ijaw communities in Ughelli. Supporters had described the development as a peaceful and credible outcome, praising it as a turning point for grassroots leadership and cohesion.
However, the latest rebuttal underscores a starkly different reality, suggesting that the situation remains unresolved and far from universally accepted.
Uncertain Path Forward
With both sides holding firm to their positions, the leadership question in the Ughelli Ijaw community appears unsettled. Analysts warn that without dialogue and a credible, transparent process, the dispute could deepen divisions and undermine efforts toward unity.
For now, the legitimacy of leadership in the community remains contested—leaving residents and stakeholders watching closely for what comes next.
