IYC Congratulates Okpebholo, Idahosa, Demands Better Deal for Ijaws 

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, has congratulated Governor Monday Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa on their successful inauguration as the new leaders of Edo State.

This was contained in a statement on Thursday signed by Comrade Nicholas Igarama – Chairman, IYC Western Zone
Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo Esq – Secretary, IYC Western Zone and Comrade Tare Magbei – Information Officer, IYC Western Zone IYC.

The group also urged the newly elected leaders to learn from the mistakes of their predecessor, Governor Godwin Obaseki, by prioritizing policies that promote inclusivity, progress, and fairness for every segment of the state’s population.

The organization called on the new administration to ensure the welfare and development of Ijaw areas by addressing historical neglect, which has left Ijaw people with inadequate representation and infrastructure.

According to the statement, “The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, extends its heartfelt congratulations to His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, and His Excellency, Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, on their successful inauguration as the Governor and Deputy Governor of Edo State.

“We view their victory as a resounding testament to the collective voice and will of the Edo people, transcending tribe and unifying every segment of the population.

“The IYC acknowledges the historic mandate bestowed upon the new administration and sees this moment as a pivotal opportunity for transformational leadership.

“We encourage Governor Okpebholo to learn from the shortcomings of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, by adopting policies and programs that are inclusive, progressive, and beneficial to all Edo citizens without discrimination.

“As the apex youth body representing Ijaws in the Western Zone—comprising Delta, Edo, and Ondo States—we make a special appeal to Governor Okpebholo to prioritize the welfare and development of Ijaw communities within Edo State.

“For too long, Ijaws have been marginalized, their rights as equal stakeholders undermined, and their heritage and contributions overlooked in state affairs.

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“Therefore, we call upon the newly inaugurated government to address this long-standing neglect by ensuring that Ijaw areas receive focused infrastructural development and fair representation through meaningful political appointments.

“Correcting the systemic marginalization and oppression of our people must be a priority to truly foster an equitable and just Edo State.

The Ijaw Youth Council stands ready to work with the new government and is optimistic that the Okpebholo-Idahosa administration will usher in a new era of inclusive growth and unity for all Edo people.”