The Ijaw Youth Council worldwide has warned politicians in Bayelsa State against inciting violence and propagating hate speech ahead of the November 11 governorship election in the state.
The News Agency of Nigeria reported that in a communique issued by the group on Sunday, the president of the youth council, Alaye Theophilus, advised politicians to desist from escalating tension in the state.
It read, “As the Bayelsa state election looms on the horizon, we issue a stern caution to political actors and gladiators against any acts that could escalate tensions in the state.
“It is our firm belief that the lives and safety of Ijaw citizens should always supersede political considerations and electoral processes.
“We shall hold politicians responsible if any Ijaw life is lost during and after the election.
“The IYC shall not fold her arms to see that the existing peace we enjoy in the state is damaged.
“We advise all politicians to shun hate speeches and focus on telling us their manifestos.
“Our lives are worth more than any political ambition.”
The council also said the federal and state governments should prioritise and implement enduring solutions to mitigate flooding.
The group advised the federal government to initiate comprehensive coastline dredging.
“The Bola Ahmed-led government must make our abandoned dam in Adamawa and create additional three dams within the flood channel to cushion the effect of flood in subsequent years.
“These dams, when completed and made functional, will not just serve as water reservoirs but as a source of hydropower that will add to the national grid,” the group added.
