IYC Declares War on Politicians Using Its Flag, Announces Sweeping Nationwide Ban
By Passman Akpos
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has announced a sweeping ban on the indiscriminate and irresponsible use of its official flag, prohibiting members from displaying or flying the organisation’s colours at political rallies, burials, weddings, naming ceremonies, title-taking events, and other non-Ijaw struggle-related activities.
The resolution was adopted during the maiden Executive Council Meeting of the 10th National Executive Council (NEC), held on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
According to a statement signed by the National Secretary, Barr. Ayebakuro Igbeta, Ph.D, the council said the decision was aimed at preserving the integrity, neutrality and identity of the IYC as an apolitical organisation committed solely to advancing the interests of the Ijaw nation.
Under the new directive, youths across all IYC clans, chapters and zones have been barred from hoisting, displaying, holding or flying the IYC flag at events and activities that do not directly relate to the objectives and struggles of the Ijaw people.
The NEC specifically outlawed the use of the IYC flag at political rallies, regardless of the political party involved or the status of any candidate, stressing that such displays undermine the council’s non-partisan position and create the impression of political endorsement.
Beyond politics, the council also prohibited the use of the flag at private and social gatherings, including burials, marriages, naming ceremonies, child dedications, title-taking ceremonies and other celebratory events.
However, the council made limited exceptions, stating that the IYC flag may be displayed during the burial or significant events of distinguished Ijaw personalities who have made exceptional contributions to the Ijaw struggle and the advancement of the Ijaw nation.
The resolution also permits the display of IYC colours during events organised in solidarity with the President of the IYC, National Officers, the Speaker of the Mobile Parliament, or recognised Zonal and Chapter Chairmen.
The IYC President directed all organs and structures of the organisation to immediately comply with the new policy.
The resolution, dated July 23, 2026, was officially signed by the National Secretary, Barr. Ayebakuro Igbeta, Ph.D.
