Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has brokered peace among rival factions of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide as part of efforts to strengthen unity ahead of the council’s 2026 elective convention.
The reconciliation took place during an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting convened by the governor in Yenagoa, where IYC leaders and prominent stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to peace, reconciliation and the continued development of the Ijaw nation.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Diri urged members of the organisation to place the collective interest of the Ijaw people above personal ambitions and avoid actions capable of creating divisions within the council.
“As we prepare for the 2026 IYC elective convention, it is important that we place the interest of our people above personal ambitions and avoid every tendency that could lead to division. We must continue to build bridges, not walls,” the governor said.
He stressed that unity remains essential to advancing the aspirations of the Ijaw people, calling on IYC leaders to embrace dialogue, mutual respect and reconciliation.
According to him, a united Ijaw nation would be better positioned to protect its interests and play a more influential role in national affairs.
“A united Ijaw nation is stronger, more influential and better positioned to pursue our collective aspirations as a people,” Diri added.
A major outcome of the meeting was the reconciliation between Jonathan Lokpobiri and Theophilus Alaye, who agreed to set aside their differences in the interest of the IYC and the Ijaw nation.
Governor Diri commended both leaders for choosing peace, describing their decision as an example worthy of emulation by other members of the organisation.
“Their decision to embrace peace and put the past behind them is a commendable step that should inspire every Ijaw son and daughter to choose dialogue over discord,” he said.
The governor further urged stakeholders to sustain the spirit of reconciliation and work collectively to preserve the legacy of the IYC, noting that lasting peace and unity are critical to the progress and development of the Ijaw nation.
“The Ijaw nation can only attain greater heights when we stand together with one voice and one purpose. Let us continue to promote unity and preserve the legacy of the IYC for peace, stability and the development of our people,” he said.
