IYC Directs Central Zone to Suspend Planned Solidarity March Over Kiriyai Case, Seeks Amicable Settlement

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has directed its Central Zone leadership to immediately suspend the planned solidarity march in support of Mr. Kiriyai Daukoru, while also ordering all affiliate groups and supporters to halt social media comments, publications, and engagements relating to the ongoing legal dispute involving the President of the Azikel Group, Dr. Azibapu Eruani.

The directive was contained in a statement dated July 26, 2026, and signed by the National Secretary of the IYC, Barr. Ayebakuro Igbeta, Ph.D.

According to the statement, the National Executive Council (NEC) expressed concern over the ongoing cyber bullying, cyber stalking, and criminal defamation suit instituted by Dr. Eruani against Mr. Kiriyai Daukoru, noting that the matter is already before a court of competent jurisdiction.

The Council said it would not comment on the merits of the case but emphasized the need for Ijaw people to resolve internal disputes through dialogue rather than public confrontation.

Acting on the directive of IYC President, Comrade Dr. Doubara Okotete, the NEC instructed the Central Zone leadership to call off the proposed solidarity rally and urged all Ijaw youth groups to refrain from making further statements or publications capable of escalating the matter.

The IYC stressed that its intervention does not amount to taking sides but is aimed at fostering reconciliation between two sons of the Ijaw nation.

The Council also acknowledged Dr. Eruani’s contributions to the economic development of the region, particularly through the Azikel Refinery project, describing it as a major investment expected to create employment and business opportunities for Ijaw youths.

It warned that sustained public attacks and protests against indigenous investors could discourage future investments and negatively affect employment prospects for young people in the Niger Delta.

The NEC disclosed that the IYC President and members of the National Executive Council would, upon Dr. Eruani’s return to Nigeria, meet separately with him and the family of Mr. Kiriyai Daukoru as part of efforts to achieve an amicable, out-of-court resolution.

The Council expressed optimism that the intervention would produce a “win-win” outcome for all parties while preserving the unity and collective interests of the Ijaw people.

The IYC further cautioned that protests, regardless of their intentions, could be hijacked by criminal elements to foment violence and disorder, urging all concerned to allow the Council’s peace initiative to run its course.