Indigenous Igbo Congress I'm Rivers State ( IIC) Press Release Over The Emergency Rule In Rivers State.
Press Release
To: All Media Houses
From: Indigenous Igbo Congress of Rivers State (IIC)
Published On the Biafra post
Date: March 25, 2025
RE: Addressing the Political Crisis in Rivers State
The Indigenous Igbo Congress of Rivers State (IIC) wishes to formally address the ongoing political crisis that has resulted in a declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of the sitting governor.
We recognize that this situation, while rooted in political dynamics, has unfortunately been portrayed through a lens that emphasizes ethnic divisions. We, therefore, unequivocally condemn the persistent and dangerous ethnic framing of this issue, which seeks to divide our people into factions based on ethnic identities. Labelling this situation as an Ijaw versus Ikwerre conflict and the attempts to set other ethnic groups against the Ikwerre is not only misleading but also incites unnecessary discord among the diverse ethnic groups in Rivers State.
We reject any narrative that seeks to pit one ethnic group against another and emphasize that unity is for the socio-economic progress of our state. Furthermore, we reject the insinuation that the Igbo-speaking groups in Rivers State are each separate totally distinct tiny minority groups, as portrayed in the unfortunate map being circulated, where several unrelated ethno-linguistic groups in the Riverine geocultural section of the state are lumped as one ethnic group, while mischievously ignoring the oneness and ethno-linguistic homogeneity of the Upland areas in Rivers State (excluding Ogoni and Eleme) This perspective is grossly inaccurate; the Igbo ethnic group constitutes the largest demographic within the state, and their socio-political influence is profound. Those behind the map in their unfortunate ethnic expansionism had even portrayed the Asa and Ndoki tribes of Oyigbo LGA, whose Ukwa Kith and Kin are in Abia State, as part of the Ijaw tribe, with the expansionist name "Aminadokiari".
Certain groups of aggrieved people, hiding behind ethnic forums, have been issuing threats to public peace in the State, in solidarity with the Governor, who is perceived as Ijaw.
It is crucial to point out that both political figures in question, Wike and Fubara, despite their perceived ethnic affiliations, originate from Igboid-speaking communities. While former Governor Ezenwo Wike hails from the same Apara clan of Ikwerre land as the current Ohanézè Ndígbo Worldwide President General, Sen. Azuta Mbata, Governor Fubara hails from Opobo, where the primary language spoken is the Ubani-Ndoki dialect of the Igbo language, despite an overbearing Ijaw identity. This highlights the interconnectedness of our communities, regardless of political affiliations. We assert that the present crisis should be envisioned as a dispute between political allies rather than an ethnic conflict. The IIC publicly affirms its unwavering solidarity with any duly elected and constitutionally recognized governor of Rivers State, and we pledge to support the individual who retains the legitimate mandate of the people.
We take note of the fact that following rumours of impeachment, there were cases of vandalism of oil facilities, particularly the blowing up of the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Ogoni and the explosion of a pipeline at Ndoni and Eleme. It would be difficult to disconnect the unfortunate incidents from the earlier circulated threats and public declaration of some key figures and militant groups from a certain ethnic extraction whose threats and involvement stem from perceived ethnic ties with the Governor.
It is also alarming that these acts of vandalism have targeted territories beyond the Ijaw/riverine territory, sparking fears that the Upland areas, especially the Igbo-speaking regions, may be under attack. These actions are not only a threat to the peace and stability of Rivers State but also pose a danger to the lives and properties of innocent citizens. The IIC condemns these acts of violence and vandalism in the strongest terms possible
We appeal to all involved parties to engage in dialogue and pursue peaceful, lawful and constructive avenues in resolving their differences and to reject incitement to violence. However, if certain groups have chosen vandalism to express their demands, then they should carry out such within their territory and steer clear from the Igbo-speaking areas of the State.
The notion that any group holds a monopoly on fierce confrontation is erroneous and will be challenged vigorously. The IIC is prepared to take all necessary measures to protect our communities from encroachment and vandalism. We will not tolerate any form of vandalism, encroachment, or malicious division instigated against any Igbo-speaking community in Rivers State or attempts to destabilize the peace of Rivers State.
The IIC will go to any length to deter encroachment or vandalism in the Igbo territory in the State.
The Igbo people of Rivers have accorded their mandate to the current administration and coexist peacefully with other communities within the state. The Rivers Igbo people have unequivocally endorsed the current administration and enjoy harmonious relations with other ethnic groups within the state. We believe that through mutual respect, understanding, and collaboration, we can navigate these challenges and emerge with a strengthened commitment to the well-being of all citizens of Rivers State.
We urge all law-abiding citizens of Rivers State to remain calm and vigilant, while also calling on the authorities to take immediate action to address these threats and ensure the safety and security of all citizens
Signed,
Chimenum Amadi
President, Indigenous Igbo Congress of Rivers State (IIC)
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