Dickson Urges Reconciliation in INC, Backs New President Igbadiwe
Former Bayelsa State Governor and Senator representing Bayelsa West, Henry Seriake Dickson, has called for lasting reconciliation within the Ijaw National Congress (INC), urging all Ijaw leaders to unite behind the newly elected leadership in the interest of the Ijaw Nation.
Dickson made the call after receiving the newly elected President of INC,
High Chief McDonald Ebi Igbadiwe, who paid him a courtesy visit over the weekend alongside members of his executive.
The former governor congratulated Igbadiwe and his team on their emergence, expressing confidence in their ability to provide purposeful leadership and wishing them a successful tenure in the service of the Ijaw people.
Commenting on the leadership transition in the apex socio-cultural organisation, Dickson acknowledged the disagreements that preceded the election but commended the Bayelsa State Government, Governor Douye Diri, Ijaw elders and other stakeholders for constituting a high-powered reconciliation committee to address the issues.
He expressed optimism that the committee's recommendations, which he said had been submitted, would be implemented promptly to restore unity, harmony and lasting peace within the INC.
Drawing from his experience in managing Ijaw affairs during his tenure as governor, Dickson described dialogue, harmonisation, sacrifice and unity as the only sustainable path to resolving internal disputes.
He warned against actions capable of creating division within the Ijaw Nation, stressing that no individual, regardless of status, should undermine the unity of the ethnic nationality or weaken the leadership role of the Bayelsa State Government in matters concerning the Ijaw people.
According to him, leaders and stakeholders should offer constructive advice to the governor in good faith rather than work against the state's leadership on issues affecting the collective interest of the Ijaw Nation.
Dickson stressed that the affairs of the Ijaw Nation transcend political affiliation, noting that politicians and leaders across party lines must always speak with one voice whenever the interests of the Ijaw people are at stake.
The senator reflected on his administration as governor, recalling that he formally popularised the identity of the "Ijaw Nation" and described Bayelsa as the "Jerusalem of the Ijaw Nation." He said his administration initiated policies and institutions aimed at preserving Ijaw identity, culture and heritage, including the establishment of the Ministry of Ijaw National Affairs, the Ijaw Heroes Memorial Park, the Ijaw National Academy, the Ijaw Language Project, the Ijaw History Project, the Izon-Ibe Microfinance Bank and the weekly Cultural Day in the state public service.
He also highlighted his efforts in mentoring Ijaw youths and women across the Niger Delta, promoting regional alliances and advancing the Ijaw cause through national advocacy.
Dickson disclosed that the need to sustain the Ijaw agenda influenced his decision in supporting the emergence of the current Bayelsa State Governor as his successor, describing the governor as a product of the Ijaw movement.
Expressing concern over recurring disagreements within the Ijaw leadership, the former governor said such divisions were capable of weakening both the Ijaw and wider Niger Delta struggle for equity and justice in Nigeria.
While acknowledging that every aspirant who contested the INC presidency possessed the capacity to lead the organisation, Dickson urged all contestants and stakeholders to put the election behind them and focus on addressing the broader challenges confronting the Ijaw Nation.
He reaffirmed his confidence in the new INC President, saying he had known Igbadiwe for many years and believed he possessed the capacity to lead effectively if given the necessary support and guidance.
Dickson concluded by wishing the new leadership success and praying for greater unity, progress and prosperity for the Ijaw Nation, the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.
