The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has formally urged President Bola Tinubu to address the remarks made by the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, regarding the Ijaw ethnic group. Wike’s comments, which went viral, suggested that the Ijaw were “a minority of minorities” in Rivers State and other South-South states, except Bayelsa.
In a statement released on March 14, 2025, the INC, through its National Publicity Secretary Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, expressed concern over Wike’s characterization, which they feel undermines the historical and demographic significance of the Ijaw people. The INC emphasized the group’s status as one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, insisting that they are not a minority, especially in Rivers, where they occupy eight local government areas.
The INC’s statement highlighted their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Niger Delta and emphasized the importance of Wike, having served as governor of Rivers for eight years, possessing a comprehensive understanding of the state’s ethnic composition. They expressed disappointment at his remarks, which they feel contradict the historical contributions and rights of the Ijaw people to fairness and equity within the region.
“The Ijaw have long advocated for their rightful recognition in the South-South region,” Oyakemeagbegha stated. “We will not allow individual remarks to provoke us, as we continue to strive for harmony.”
As the tensions surrounding the comments unfold, the INC remains resolute in their call for President Tinubu to redirect Wike’s focus back to his ministerial responsibilities and to ensure that statements undermining any ethnic group do not go unchecked. The INC’s response underscores an ongoing discourse about ethnic representation, respect, and recognition within Nigeria’s diverse societal fabric.
