The National Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (N-CITRE-INC) on Friday suspended the Ijaw National Congress (INC), elections indefinitely.
Our Correspondent gathered that the N-CITRE, at its meeting in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital, deliberated extensively on all issues that led to the impasse in the INC elections, including petitions received.
The group, therefore, unanimously agreed to suspend the conduct of the INC elections and directed the electoral committee to stop all forms of electoral duties.
The N-CITRE, which is empowered by the INC constitution to resolve all disputes also set up a seven-man Dispute Resolution Committee (DRC) to investigate all petitions.
The resolutions read in part: ‘’ That the elections into the National Executive Council of the Ijaw National Congress (NE-INC), which were rescheduled for Monday, 13th April, 2026, by the National Electoral Committee, Ijaw National Congress(N-ELECO-INC), have been temporarily suspended, until N-CITRE directs further after all pending disputes have been settled.
“N-CITRE-INC, as the appointing authority for N-ELECO-INC, also holds the constitutional power to resolve all disputes within the congress
‘’ Consequently, N-ELECO-INC has been directed to stop performing any electoral functions until otherwise subsequently directed by N-CITRE.’’
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The N-CITRE has directed the DRC to resolve the lingering dispute and probe all petitions, including the petitions against the n-ELECO- INC.
The DRC is headed by King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, chairman of Bayelsa Traditional Rulers Council, and chairman of N-CITRE.
Other members are King Bright Ateke Fiboinumama, Chief Silas Eneyo (representing Eastern Zone), Loveth Ige (representing Central Zone), Pere Luke Kalanama III, Ekiomi Oweigbe John (Gbisa I) representing Western Zone, and zonal chairman of N-CITRE.
N-CITRE reminded all stakeholders of the principle of honesty that guides the Ijaws, and appealed for cooperation to achieve peace.
