Group seeks recognition of 7 Arogbo clans, writes an open letter to INC president, Prof. Okaba

By Osaro Michael, Benin

The Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI) and the broader Arogbo-Ijaw people, have respectfully appealed to the Ijaw National Congress (INC) leadership to approve and recognise several ancient clans within the Arogbo Kingdom that had not been given attention.

The group mentioned the clans such as Ajapa Clan, Olomuturu Clan, Biagini Clan, Awodikuro Clan, Ogidigba Clan, Ukpe Clan and Bolouwo Clan, adding these clans were deeply rooted in ancestral bloodlines, traditions, cultural practices, and history.

The group noted that the clans involved had contributed significantly to the development of Arogbo-Ibe and the wider Ijaw nation. Yet, their formal recognition within the INC had not been actualised.

Read the open letter in full

OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT, IJAW NATIONAL CONGRESS (INC), PROFESSOR BENJAMIN OKABA.

Appeal for Formal Recognition of Arogbo Clans within the INC Organisational Structure.

Dear Professor Okaba,

Greetings in the spirit of Ijaw unity, peace, and progress. On behalf of the Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI) and the broader Arogbo-Ijaw people, we respectfully appeal for your kind attention and leadership in approving the formal recognition of several ancient clans within the Arogbo Kingdom in the structure of the Ijaw National Congress (INC).

The clans in question are:

1. Ajapa Clan
2. Olomuturu Clan
3. Biagini Clan
4. Awodikuro Clan
5. Ogidigba Clan
6. Ukpe Clan
7. Bolouwo Clan

These clans are deeply rooted in ancestral bloodlines, traditions, cultural practices, and history. They have contributed significantly to the development of Arogbo-Ibe and the wider Ijaw nation. Yet, their formal recognition within the INC has not been actualised.

Our appeal is founded on justice, equity, and the preservation of our collective Ijaw heritage. We seek fairness and inclusion, not special treatment. Recognising these clans will affirm their identity and rights, aligning with the INC’s foundational values.

We kindly request that you and the INC leadership visit the Arogbo Kingdom to engage with our traditional institutions, elders, and stakeholders. This visit will verify the authenticity and historical presence of these clans, paving the way for timely approval and further unifying our people.

We remain committed to peaceful advocacy and constructive dialogue. We believe the INC, under your stewardship, can set a lasting precedent for inclusive leadership that embraces all corners of Ijawland without bias.

With the highest regards,

E-signed:

Hosea T. Ebikontei
Coordinator, Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI)

Bomi Stanley
Secretary, Movement for the Rights of Arogbo-Ibe (MRAI)

19th July, 2025