Jonathan urges Ijaw unity, chides IYC over leadership crisis

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged the Ijaw nation to unite, forge a common front irrespective of their politics, as this is the only way to make progress.

The immediate past president, at the coronation and presentation of staff of office to the King Dumaro Charles Obama, the Obanobhan of Ogbia Kingdom, Bayelsa State, said it was time for all Ijaws to unite.

Jonathan, who joined thousands of Ogbia people from all walks of life including Governor Seriake Dickson, in a colourful ceremony, said: “We are in a dynamic world and we are not expected to be in one political party. But even if we are in two parties or 200 parties, we must know that as a people we must unite if there must be progress.

“We must unite if we must make impact and that also extends to the larger Bayelsa State. We are not too many. The only thing that can make the rest of Nigeria appreciate and recognise us is unity,” he said.

According to him, “If we start fighting ourselves and abusing ourselves then Nigeria will forget you. How many are we and how many votes do we have? But we will be strong if we are united because God has blessed us with some resources.”

Jonathan berated the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) over the crisis that ensued during the last election to chose its new executive council, describing it as disappointing.

He maintained: “We should not be divided. I feel so disappointed that the IYC could not conduct elections properly, to elect people that will lead them. It is disappointing to those of us who are leaders. So, unity first and development follows.”

Jonathan described the kingship stool as the symbol of unity of the Ogbia people, urging the people to rally round and support the monarch. “Those who are lettered should not use the knowledge and the ability to use the pen to create confusion. Use it to help to unite the Ogbia people because with unity we can go very far.”

Presenting the staff of office to the new king, Governor Dickson assured the new Obanobhan of government support in the discharge of his duties.

According to Dickson, “You will play very important role by joining hands with your brother kings to protect and promote the cultural heritage and also promote peace and harmony of your people.

“Ogbia Kingdom is one of the most peaceful kingdoms in Bayelsa State. I charge you to promote rapid development, peace and stability in your kingdom,” the governor said.

The Chairman of Ogbia Brotherhood, Benson Agadaga, said the Obanobhan throne, a first class king, was an offshoot of the Ogbia Brotherhood, which was founded in 1940.