IYC Congratulates Okotete, 10th NEC-Elect, Commends Peace Process, Transparent Election
By Ndu Samuel
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has congratulated Dr. Doubra Collins Okotete and other members of the 10th National Executive Council (NEC)-elect following their emergence at the Council’s National Convention and election held on Saturday, July 11, 2026, at the Gabriel Okara Cultural Centre.
The Council described the successful conduct of the election as another significant milestone in the democratic history of the IYC, noting that the exercise was transparent, free, fair and credible, reflecting the commitment of Ijaw youths to democracy, unity and the advancement of the Ijaw struggle.
In a statement signed by its Spokesman, Amb. Binebai Yerin Princewill, on Monday, the Council expressed confidence that the incoming administration led by Dr. Okotete would sustain the ideals of the IYC while improving on the achievements of previous administrations through purposeful leadership, the promotion of unity among Ijaw people and the protection of the collective interests of the Niger Delta.
The statement noted that the mandate entrusted to the newly elected leadership comes with enormous responsibility, expressing optimism that the President-elect and his team would justify the confidence reposed in them by leading with integrity, inclusiveness, courage and commitment to the founding principles of the Council.
The IYC also commended the Executive Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, for his role in restoring peace, stability and unity within the organisation, stating that his intervention and commitment to dialogue created the enabling environment for a peaceful convention and successful election.
The Council equally expressed appreciation to Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, High Chief Kestin Pondi, Asari Dokubo, Ateke Michael Tom, Kingsley Kuku, former Presidents of the IYC Worldwide, High Chief Promise Lawuru, Chief Boro Opudu and other respected Ijaw leaders and stakeholders for their roles in brokering peace ahead of the convention.
According to the Council, the sacrifices, wise counsel and commitment of the leaders to reconciliation were instrumental in creating the atmosphere of unity that made the successful conduct of the election possible.
The statement further acknowledged that the peace recorded before and during the convention was the product of collective sacrifice by leaders, elders, former officers, delegates, contestants, stakeholders and members across the Council’s clans, chapters and zones, who placed the unity of the Ijaw nation above personal interests.
The IYC also applauded the 2026 National Electoral Committee, led by Charles Ikimi PhD, for conducting what it described as a transparent, free, fair and credible election. It said the committee demonstrated professionalism, neutrality and transparency throughout the electoral process, thereby strengthening confidence in the Council’s democratic tradition.
While congratulating all members of the 10th NEC-elect, the Council urged them to regard their election as a call to selfless service and visionary leadership, stressing that the expectations of Ijaw youths remain high.
It added that the new leadership is expected to promote unity, defend the rights and interests of the Ijaw people, and advance the struggle for justice, equity, environmental sustainability, resource ownership and accelerated development of the Niger Delta.
The Council also appealed to contestants, delegates, stakeholders and members of the IYC Worldwide to put the election behind them and rally support for the incoming leadership in the interest of the unity and progress of the Ijaw nation.
The statement noted that the 10th National Executive Council-elect would be formally inaugurated on July 22, 2026, expressing confidence that the new leadership would begin its tenure with renewed commitment, vision and dedication to serving the Ijaw people.
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