Ijaw elders endorse Kio, Ebiseni, Benamaisia for INC national positions

Nathan Tamarapreye, Yenagoa

Ijaw elders from the Central Zone of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) have passed a vote of confidence on three principal officers of the National Representative Council (NRC), endorsing their aspirations in the forthcoming national executive elections.

The NRC, the legislative arm of the INC, serves as a check on the National Executive Committee.

In a statement issued over the weekend following a well-attended interactive session, the elders commended the performance of His Royal Highness, Dr Anyanate Kio, Leader of the House; Princess Joyce Adesola Ebiseni, Deputy Leader; and Elder Gabriel Pinssidor Benamaisia, Clerk of the House. All three are seeking election into the national executive offices of the Congress.

The Central Zone comprises delegates from Bayelsa State and some clan leadership from Rivers State.

Members of the zone expressed satisfaction with the leadership qualities, commitment, and track record of the trio, describing their stewardship as inclusive and impactful.

The motion for the vote of confidence was moved by High Chief Oyinkuro Bekeowei of Tarakiri Clan and seconded by Chief Wilson Obi of Ogbia Clan. Following deliberations, members unanimously adopted the motion and assured the candidates of maximum support from NRC members in the Central Zone.

Dr Kio is contesting for the position of National Secretary; Princess Ebiseni is vying for National Women Affairs Secretary, while Elder Benamaisia is seeking election as National Auditor.

The elders noted that throughout their tenure, the trio worked harmoniously with representatives from the Central, Eastern, and Western zones, demonstrating inclusiveness, unity of purpose, and respect for zonal balance within the Congress. Their leadership style, they said, has strengthened collaboration and mutual trust among members, regardless of zone.

Consequently, the Central Zone NRC appealed to members from the Eastern and Western zones to support the candidates in the upcoming election, describing them as bridge-builders capable of fostering unity and progress across the Ijaw nation.

The council emphasised that the endorsement was rooted in performance, loyalty, and proven commitment to the ideals and aspirations of the Ijaw people, rather than mere political considerations.

As the Congress prepares to elect new national executive members, the Central Zone called for solidarity across all zones to ensure the emergence of leaders who will sustain unity, accountability, and purposeful leadership within the organisation.