IYC Cracks Down on ‘Free Kariyai’ Campaign, Bans Further Social Media Agitations
By Passman Akpos
The National Executive Council (NEC) of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has directed the IYC Central Zone to immediately suspend its planned solidarity march over the ongoing legal dispute involving President of the Azikel Group, Dr. Azibapu Eruani, and Bayelsa-based activist Kariyai Daukoru.
The directive, contained in a statement dated July 26, 2026 and signed by the IYC National Secretary, Barr. Ayebakuro Igbeta, Ph.D., also instructed all affiliate youth organisations and stakeholders to refrain from further comments, publications and engagements on the matter across social media platforms.
According to the Council, the dispute is already before a court of competent jurisdiction, making it necessary for all parties to exercise restraint while the IYC intensifies efforts to secure an amicable, out-of-court resolution.
The NEC reaffirmed the Council’s longstanding policy of resolving disputes involving Ijaw people through peaceful dialogue rather than allowing internal disagreements to escalate in the public domain.
As part of the peace initiative, IYC President, Comrade Dr. Doubara Okotete, is expected to lead members of the National Executive Council to meetings with Dr. Eruani and the family of Kariyai Daukoru in an effort to broker reconciliation.
The Council stressed that its intervention should not be interpreted as taking sides but rather as a commitment to ensuring justice, unity and lasting peace within the Ijaw nation.
The NEC further expressed concern that sustained protests and media campaigns against Dr. Eruani and the Azikel Group could discourage private investment and undermine the willingness of successful Ijaw entrepreneurs to create employment and empowerment opportunities for youths across the Niger Delta.
It also warned that public demonstrations could be infiltrated by individuals pursuing ulterior motives, thereby posing security risks and increasing the likelihood of violence.
The Council therefore appealed to all concerned parties to embrace dialogue and allow its leadership to manage the matter peacefully in the collective interest of the Ijaw people.The latest directive marks a significant shift from the earlier position of the IYC Central Zone.
Tarakirivoice had previously reported that the Central Zone Chairman, Peres Ineife, confirmed that a “Free Kariyai” solidarity walk would hold on Monday, directing members and supporters to assemble at Ekeki Park by 8:00 a.m. before proceeding on a peaceful march.
At the time, Ineife declared that the Council would stand firmly with Kariyai Daukoru, insisting that the protest was intended to seek his release and encourage an amicable resolution of the dispute.
The announcement generated widespread reactions, with many supporters expressing readiness to participate, while others urged caution because the matter remains before the courts.
Kariyai Daukoru is facing criminal charges bordering on alleged cyberbullying and criminal defamation following a petition by Dr. Azibapu Eruani, President of the Azikel Group. Daukoru has denied the allegations and maintains that he is innocent.
Both the criminal proceedings and the related civil action remain pending before competent courts, and no final judgment has been delivered. Under Nigerian law, all parties are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
