Delta @33: Prioritise Ijaw Development -IYC Tells Oborevwori

By Stephen Asaba-ase

Following the Delta State at 33rd anniversary celebration, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone has expressed deep disappointment and concern over the continued marginalization of Ijaw communities, despite their significant contributions to the state’s economy.

This was contained in a statement signed by the council’s chairman, Nicholas Igarama, secretary, Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo, and information officer, Tare Magbei.

The IYC noted that for three decades, the Ijaw people had played a crucial role in developing and sustaining Delta State, particularly through the oil and gas sector. However, their communities remain underdeveloped and neglected, lacking basic infrastructure, adequate educational facilities, and sufficient healthcare services.

The council described the neglect of the Ijaw people as a profound injustice and a failure of governance, emphasizing that it is disheartening that after 33 years, the Ijaw people have yet to fully enjoy the benefits of democracy and development in Delta State.

The IYC called on the state government to take immediate action to address the glaring inequalities, urging Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to prioritise Ijaw development and ensure that the benefits of statehood reach every Ijaw community.

The council demanded a focused effort to address infrastructure deficit, improve access to education and healthcare and create economic opportunities for Ijaw youths.

The IYC emphasised that the Ijaw people deserve to be active participants in the Delta State project, not just in name but in reality, and that it is time to ensure that development reaches every corner of the state, including Ijaw communities.