Tension is mounting ahead of the forthcoming Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Central Zone election following allegations that a younger brother of the Bayelsa State Governor, who serves as a government aide, is compiling a delegates’ list with the intention of imposing it on stakeholders in Sagbama and other Local Government Areas.
Concerned youths in the LGA have described the alleged development as a violation of the established delegates selection process and a threat to the credibility of the forthcoming election.
The youths are therefore calling on the 10th National Executive Council (NEC) of the IYC, the Central Zone leadership and the Electoral Committee (ELECO), and other critical stakeholders to urgently intervene and ensure that due process, fairness, and transparency prevail.
According to the concerned youths, the IYC electoral process should be driven by consultation, consensus, and democratic principles rather than intimidation, coercion, or the imposition of delegates.
They emphasized that elections are won through effective engagement, lobbying, and the confidence of delegates—not through the abuse of influence or the alleged misuse of the name of public office holders.
The youths further stated that Governor Douye Diri has consistently demonstrated that he is a father to all Bayelsans and expressed confidence that he would neither authorize nor support any individual using his name to intimidate, discriminate against, or suppress the democratic rights of young people.
The statement also alleged that the governor’s younger brother, who is reportedly backing his personal aide for the IYC Central Zone Chairmanship position, is attempting to influence the delegates selection process to favour his preferred candidate. The youths urged all those involved to refrain from actions capable of undermining the integrity of the election.
While reaffirming their commitment to peace and the rule of law, the concerned youths warned that if the alleged irregularities are not urgently addressed, they may be compelled to embark on a peaceful protest to demand a transparent, credible, and inclusive electoral process.
They concluded by urging all stakeholders to safeguard the credibility of the IYC Central Zone election and ensure that the will of the delegates—not the influence of individuals—determines the outcome of the poll.