The National Conference of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (N-CITRE) has officially suspended the upcoming Ijaw National Congress (INC) elections, which were initially scheduled to take place on April 13, 2026.
The decision was reached during a high-level meeting held in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where traditional leaders and stakeholders reviewed growing concerns surrounding the electoral process.
The suspension follows a court directive triggered by lawsuits filed by candidates who were disqualified from participating in the election. These legal challenges have raised questions about the transparency and fairness of the process.
After extensive deliberations, N-CITRE ordered the immediate halt of all election-related activities. The directive also applies to the INC Electoral Committee (N-ELECO-INC), which has been instructed to cease operations until further notice.
Citing its constitutional authority within the Ijaw National Congress, the elders’ council announced the formation of a seven-member Dispute Resolution Committee. The panel is tasked with investigating petitions and addressing grievances submitted by aggrieved stakeholders.
The committee is chaired by King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, with representatives drawn from the Eastern, Central, and Western zones of the Ijaw nation, alongside other key stakeholders.
According to N-CITRE, the suspension will remain in effect until all disputes are thoroughly examined and resolved. The body emphasized the importance of due process in ensuring credible leadership within the INC.
Stakeholders across the Ijaw community have been urged to cooperate with the committee and uphold integrity throughout the resolution process to maintain unity and stability.
The Ijaw National Congress, a major socio-political organization representing Ijaw interests in Nigeria, plays a critical role in regional advocacy and leadership coordination.
