Igbos are included, Indigenous Ijaws are Neglected, Forgotten for decades in Edo state
By: EgbemaVoice
A Call for Inclusion, Equity, and Development for Indigenous Ijaw Communities in Edo State.
The Indigenous Ijaw people in Edo State are deeply concerned about the continued neglect of their communities despite their contributions to the growth, peace, and unity of the state. While political appointments and government opportunities are being distributed across various ethnic groups, many Ijaw communities feel abandoned, unheard, and left behind in the affairs of Edo State.
We acknowledge and respect the constitutional right of every ethnic nationality in Edo State to participate in governance. However, the Indigenous Ijaw people are appealing to His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, to also remember the riverine Ijaw communities that have for decades suffered from underdevelopment, poor infrastructure, and lack of government presence.
Many Ijaw communities in Edo State still lack basic amenities such as good roads, healthcare centers, clean drinking water, electricity, quality schools, and economic empowerment opportunities. The people continue to live in difficult conditions despite being loyal citizens who have consistently contributed to the peace and progress of the state.
It is painful that many qualified Ijaw sons and daughters remain excluded from meaningful political appointments and decision-making positions. Inclusion is not just about politics; it is about fairness, recognition, and giving every ethnic group a sense of belonging.
We therefore passionately call on Governor Monday Okpebholo to extend the dividends of democracy to Indigenous Ijaw communities by:
* Appointing qualified Ijaw sons and daughters into key government positions such as Commissioners, Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, and board members.
* Investing in critical infrastructure in riverine communities.
* Providing schools, healthcare facilities, electricity, roads, and potable water.
* Creating employment and empowerment opportunities for Ijaw youths and women.
* Promoting unity and equal representation among all ethnic nationalities in Edo State.
The Indigenous Ijaw people are not asking for favoritism; they are asking for fairness, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Development should not be selective. Every community in Edo State deserves to feel the presence of government.
We believe that true leadership is measured by how well the weak, neglected, and marginalized are remembered. This is a time for healing, unity, and inclusive governance that carries every ethnic nationality along.
The Indigenous Ijaw people remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to the progress of Edo State. We only ask that our voices be heard and our communities not be forgotten.
“Justice, inclusion, and development for all will strengthen the unity and future of Edo State.”
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