Diri Calls For Unity, Reconciles Lokpobiri, Alaye Ahead Of IYC Convention

June 30, 2026
The Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Douye Diri, on Tuesday convened an enlarged stakeholders' meeting of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) at the Banquet Hall in Yenagoa, where he called for unity, peace, and reconciliation among Ijaw leaders ahead of the council's 2026 elective convention.

The meeting, attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, and key stakeholders of the Ijaw nation, was aimed at fostering harmony within the IYC and preventing future factionalisation of the organisation.
Addressing participants, Governor Diri urged IYC leaders and members to place the collective interest of the Ijaw nation above personal ambitions, stressing that unity remains the foundation for the progress and development of the people.

According to him, the peace meeting was convened to strengthen cohesion within the council and ensure a rancour-free elective convention in 2026.
"I appeal to all of us to embrace love, unity and peace. That's the only way we can be stronger together and move the Ijaw nation forward. We should sacrifice our personal interests for the overall interest and development of the Ijaw nation. Let us sheath our swords and work together.

"I thank all of you for honouring my invitation to this peace and reconciliation meeting. This shows that we all love the Ijaw nation," the governor said.
A major highlight of the meeting was the reconciliation of Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri and Theophilus Alaye, both of whom had laid claim to the presidency of the Ijaw Youth Council at different times.

The peace initiative was widely welcomed by stakeholders, who described it as a significant step towards strengthening unity within the IYC and promoting lasting peace among Ijaw youths.
Among the dignitaries present were the member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Hon. Oforji Oboku; the Leader of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Monday Obolo Bubou; members of the State House of Assembly; commissioners; Hon. Kingsley Kuku; King Asari Dokubo; other government officials; and prominent leaders of the Ijaw nation.