The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone, unequivocally condemns Governor Monday Okpebholo's unilateral decision to abolish the Edo South Traditional Councils and reinstate statutory authority solely to the Oba of Benin.
In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Nicholas Igarama, Chairman, IYC Western Zone, Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo Esq.
Secretary, IYC Western Zone, Comrade Tare Magbei
Information Officer, IYC Western Zone, a softcopy was made available to the The "Egbemavoice News", said this move is to disregards Edo State's diverse ethnic composition, which boasts distinct traditional institutions, each deeply rooted in its own customs and history. The establishment of these councils under Governor Godwin Obaseki's administration was a progressive step toward upholding mutual respect and cultural preservation among the state's ethnic groups.
They said Governor Okpebholo's decision threatens to dismantle this harmony, undermining the cultural autonomy of non-Bini ethnic groups, including the Ijaw people. While we hold the Oba of Benin's throne in the highest regard, we must remind the Governor that the Ijaw people are independent, with a proud tradition of self-governance and leadership that does not fall under the Oba's jurisdiction.
As peace-loving stakeholders committed to Edo State's progress, we urge Governor Okpebholo to uphold equity and inclusivity by respecting all royal stools, particularly those representing Ijaw territories. The Ijaw community's contributions to the Governor's electoral success should not be met with marginalization or actions that sow discord.
We call on Governor Okpebholo to reverse this decision, officially recognize Ijaw traditional stools, and work toward a governance structure that honors the state's rich cultural diversity. Such a step is critical to fostering mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and inclusive development in Edo State.
Press Release partly Reads...
Abolishing of Edo Traditional Council a Disrespect to Ijaws, Other Edo Tribes
"Following the pronouncement made by Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, abolishing the Edo South Traditional Councils to reinstate statutory authority to the Oba of Benin, the Ijaw Youth Council Western Zone (Delta, Edo and Ondo) hereby express concern on the rationale behind the move.
"It is a known fact that Edo State is a multi-ethnic state with various traditional institutions well established according to the customs of these differing nationalities.
"It was on that premise the former administration led by Godwin Obaseki created the Councils under view in order to uphold sanctity and respect for customs.
"It leaves the IYC with great worry that Okpebholo is well on the way to ignite rancour, instability, and disrespect towards the cultures and traditions of the people of Edo South.
"Wth due respect to the throne, we remind Okpebholo that Ijaws are independent and self-sufficient people who are not under the rulership of the Oba of Benin.
"As peace loving and progress-driven citizens, we call on Governor Okpebholo to give regard and respect to royal stools, particularly those of Ijaw territories.
"We need not remind Okpebholo that Ijaws were strategically instrumental towards his emergence, and as such, it is a typical case of turning around to stab us in the back with his recent action.
"The IYC, therefore, calls on the Governor Okpebholo to take heed and look into recognizing and elevating Ijaw Royal stools in Edo State."
Signed
Comrade Nicholas Igarama
Chairman, IYC Western Zone
Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo Esq
Secretary, IYC Western Zone
Comrade Tare Magbei
Information Officer, IYC Western Zone
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