The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Worldwide, has warned that it will hold politicians responsible for any loss of life ahead of the November 11 governorship election in Bayelsa State.
The Council, in a communique issued Sunday by its President, Dr. Alaye Theophilus, cautioned politicians against hate speech and any acts that could escalate tensions in the state
The communique said: “As the Bayelsa State election looms on the horizon, we issue a stern caution to political actors and gladiators against any acts that could escalate tensions in the state.
“It is our firm belief that the lives and safety of Ijaw citizens should always supersede political considerations and electoral processes. We shall hold politicians responsible if any Ijaw life is lost during and after the election.
“The IYC shall not fold her arms to see that the existing peace we enjoy in the state is damaged. We advise all politicians to shun hate speeches and focus on telling us their manifestos. Our lives are worth more than any political ambition.”
The Council also called on the Federal Government to immediately reevaluate and expedite the establishment of modular refineries across the Niger Delta region.
It equally implored the government to expedite action in ensuring that the Port Harcourt refinery commences operations by December as promised.
The IYC further called on the Federal Government to initiate comprehensive coastline dredging along riverine communities whose landscape design is seated below sea level.
The communique added, “The Bola Ahmed-led government must make our abandoned dam in Adamawa and create additional three dams within the flood channel to cushion the effect of flood in subsequent years.
“These dams, when completed and made functional, will not just serve as water reservoirs but as a source of hydropower that will add to the national grid.”
