INC halts election, orders internal resolution of grievances 

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has resolved to settle grievances arising from the disqualification of some aspirants internally, following two court orders that halted Saturday’s national election.

The decision was announced by INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, at a press briefing held at Ijaw House, the national headquarters of the body in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Okaba said the court injunctions directed the organisation to exhaust the internal dispute resolution mechanism as provided in its constitution within seven days.

The INC has therefore opted for internal settlement and will conduct the election within 30 days after reporting back to the court.

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He explained that Article 21 (a) and (b) of the constitution requires elections to be held at least 60 days before the expiration of the current tenure. Due to the court process, the convention approved a reduction of the period to 30 days for this election only.

The motion for the 30-day timeline was moved by His Royal Highness Ojukonson and seconded by Izionfadei Fidou. Another motion limiting the change to only the current election was moved by High Chief (Major) Andrew Oputa (rtd) and seconded by Chief (Gen.) Francis Donben.

The Chairman of the National Electoral Committee, His Royal Majesty Francis Tabai, represented by Vice Chairman His Royal Majesty Seiyefa Koroye, said the committee was surprised by the court orders as they were fully prepared to conduct the poll.

He said If the internal mechanism fails to resolve the matter within seven days, the parties will appear in court on March 18, 2026.

Presidential aspirant Prof. Franklin Osaisai expressed disappointment over the postponement but stated that the INC, being a law-abiding organisation, will abide by the court injunctions to maintain peace in Ijaw land.