Diri Brokers Peace Between Lokpobiri, Alaye Ahead Of IYC National Elective Convention

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called on leaders and members of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide to embrace unity, peace and reconciliation as preparations gather momentum for the council’s 2026 elective convention.

Hotnews reports that Governor Diri made the appeal on Tuesday during an enlarged stakeholders’ meeting of the IYC held at the Banquet Hall in Government House, Yenagoa.

The meeting, convened by the Governor alongside his Deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, brought together prominent Ijaw leaders, political office holders, youth leaders and other stakeholders to chart a united path for the prestigious organization.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Diri stressed the need for Ijaw leaders to place the collective interest of the Ijaw nation above personal ambitions, warning that disunity and factionalisation could undermine the progress and influence of the ethnic nationality.

According to him, the peace meeting was convened to forestall future divisions within the IYC, particularly as the council prepares for its 2026 elective convention.

The Governor emphasized that unity remains the greatest strength of the Ijaw people and urged all stakeholders to work together in the interest of peace, stability and development.

“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 interest for the overall interest and development of the Ijaw nation. Let’s sheath our sword and work together.

“I thank all of you for honoring my invitation for a peace and reconciliation meeting. This shows we love the Ijaw nation,” Governor Diri said.

A major highlight of the meeting, was the reconciliation of Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Jnr and Mr Theophilus Alaye, both of whom had laid claim to the presidency of the Ijaw youth council at the same time–a situation that had contributed to divisions within the organisation.

Governor Diri’s intervention led to both leaders embracing reconciliation, a move widely applauded by stakeholders as a significant step toward restoring harmony and strengthening the IYC ahead of its next leadership transition.

The enlarged stakeholders’ meeting attracted an impressive array of prominent Ijaw leaders, including former Presidential Amnesty Programme Coordinator, Kingsley Kuku, Niger Delta activist, King Asari Dokubo, members of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, top government officials and other respected leaders.

Participants commended Governor Diri for taking proactive steps to foster peace within the IYC, expressing optimism that the reconciliation initiative would pave the way for a rancour-free elective convention and a more united Ijaw nation.

~ Hot News Reporters
Wednesday, 1, June, 2026