Tompolo, Otuaro, traditional rulers, others witness inauguration of new INC executive

A new national executive council of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) was inaugurated on Thursday in Warri, Delta State.

The council includes High Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei, the new President; Dr. Okubokeme Tuodolo, Vice President 1; Rose Obuoforibo, Vice President 2; Kennedy Odiowei, Vice President 3; and Dr. Ayanate Kio, Secretary.

These officers were elected during the INC national convention held at the Ijaw House in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, in April 2026.

The formal ceremony marked the conclusion of the five‑year term of the former President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, who delivered a valedictory address.

High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, known as Tompolo and Chairman of Tantita Security Services; Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme; leading traditional rulers; federal and state legislators; senior government officials; members of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC); and other INC stakeholders were present.

Okaba highlighted the achievements of the INC, noting that “the INC has established its presence in the global community.” He urged the new leadership under Igbadiwei to maintain Ijaw unity, promote Ijaw culture, and advocate for the creation of additional local government areas in Bayelsa State, which currently has only eight LGAs.

He praised the INC electoral committee, chaired by retired Justice F. F. Tabai, for conducting a credible election that facilitated a smooth transition.

Okaba also called on the new leadership to uphold the INC constitution in all organizational affairs and requested support from stakeholders, clans, and community leaders for the new President and council members.

In his acceptance speech, President MacDonald Igbadiwei described the occasion as “a historic moment” for the Ijaw nation. He pledged to work toward unity and development, ensuring that the socio‑political and economic interests of the Ijaw people are protected and promoted.

Igbadiwei criticized the fact that Bayelsa State, a major contributor to the national economy, has only eight local government areas while some less‑contributing states have over forty. He vowed to pursue equity and justice for the Ijaw nation, noting that the transition process demonstrated the INC’s commitment to democratic values and internal cohesion.

Speaking at the event, PAP Administrator Otuaro praised the newly inaugurated INC executives and expressed confidence in their leadership. “As a stakeholder in the Ijaw nation, I have confidence in the ability of the new leadership of the Ijaw National Congress under High Chief MacDonald Igbadiwei to give the Ijaw a new direction,” he said. He urged the leaders to strengthen unity and love among Ijaw people.

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