INC Crisis Explodes: Presidential Candidate Pulls Out, Defies ‘Illegal’ Election Reschedule — Backs Traditional Rulers’ Authority
By Passman Akpos
YENAGOA, BAYELSA — The deepening leadership crisis rocking the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has taken a dramatic turn as a frontline presidential candidate, Elder T.K. Ogoriba, has officially withdrawn from the controversial rescheduled national elections, declaring the process illegitimate and in violation of traditional authority.
In a strongly worded letter dated April 12 and addressed to the Chairman of the Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE), Ogoriba announced his total disassociation from the elections slated for Monday, April 13, at Ijaw House in Yenagoa.
His withdrawal comes amid escalating tensions between political actors and traditional institutions over control of the INC electoral process.
“I Will Not Defy Our Sacred Institution”
Ogoriba, who had been vying for the presidency of the apex Ijaw socio-cultural body, said no ambition was worth undermining the authority of CITRE, which he described as the highest embodiment of Ijaw traditional legitimacy.
While affirming his desire to lead the INC, he made it clear that he would not participate in what he termed a unilaterally rescheduled election conducted without the consent of traditional rulers.
“No amount of pressure from any quarters shall force me to disobey CITRE,” he declared, calling for calm among his supporters and urging them to remain resolute.
Governor Diri’s Directive Ignored?
Ogoriba referenced a high-level reconciliatory meeting held on March 13 at Creek Haven, Government House, convened by Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, where CITRE was empowered to handle all disputes arising from the elections.
According to him, the decision by the outgoing INC National Executive Council (NEC) and its Electoral Committee (ELECO) to reschedule the elections without consulting CITRE or other stakeholders amounts to a flagrant disregard for both constitutional provisions and the governor’s directive.
Traditional Rulers vs Political Structure
This latest development reinforces earlier reports by Tarakirivoice titled:
“Kings vs Politicians: Ijaw Traditional Rulers Seize Control, Halt INC Leadership Race.”
The report detailed how CITRE had already ordered an indefinite suspension of the elections following a crucial meeting on April 9 in Yenagoa, citing mounting petitions, legal disputes, and credibility concerns.
In that directive, traditional rulers — led by King Bubaraye Dakolo — instructed the INC Electoral Committee to cease all election activities immediately, asserting their constitutional authority as custodians of the process.
Dispute Committee Steps In
To salvage the situation, a seven-member Dispute Resolution Committee chaired by King Dakolo was inaugurated to review grievances and chart a path toward unity.
The committee is expected to examine multiple petitions, including those challenging the credibility of the electoral body itself.
A Nation on Edge
Ogoriba’s withdrawal is being seen by observers as a major blow to the already fragile electoral process and a potential trigger for further alignments within the Ijaw political landscape.
With traditional rulers insisting on due process and key aspirants pulling out, the fate of the INC elections now hangs in the balance.
Call for Calm Amid Uncertainty
Despite the growing tension, Ogoriba urged delegates and supporters across the Ijaw nation to remain peaceful, expressing confidence that a just resolution would eventually emerge.
As the crisis unfolds, many are asking:Will the political structure bow to traditional authority — or is the INC headed for a deeper fracture?
…..Developing Story…
