Ijaw monarchs, elders defend suspension of INC elections
The Council of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE) has defended its decision to suspend the elections of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), saying it is necessary to adhere to
The Council of Ijaw Traditional Rulers and Elders (CITRE) has defended its decision to suspend the elections of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), saying it is necessary to adhere to the guiding principles of the council's constitution.
The Chairman of CITRE, HRM, King Bubaraye Dakolo Agada IV, Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, said in a statement on Saturday that the elections would remain suspended pending the resolution of all petitions arising from the electoral process.
He said the CITRE's action was guided by the INC Constitution and its responsibility to uphold order, balance, and continuity within the congress.
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King Dakolo said CITRE did not engage in the administrative conduct of elections, but would ensure that all processes within the congress must remain consistent with the constitution from which they derived authority.
He said that where questions arose as to the constitutional integrity of any process, it became necessary to address the issues to preserve legitimacy and confidence.
King Dakolo assured that CITRE remained committed to ensuring that the congress continued to function within a framework that commanded confidence, legitimacy, and order, adding that stakeholders must abide by established procedures.
The statement said, "Accordingly, CITRE reiterates that the electoral process remains in abeyance pending the Committee’s report. This position is guided solely by the need to preserve the integrity of a process under review.
"This does not detract from the roles of other organs of Congress. It affirms that constitutional compliance is foundational and that processes under review are best preserved until their validity is clarified.
‘’CITRE, therefore, urges all organs and stakeholders of Congress to act in a manner that supports institutional coherence, respects established processes, and avoids actions that may pre-empt or compromise ongoing efforts at doing things constitutionally.
"The Committee is expected to conclude its work within the stipulated timeframe, after which CITRE will consider its recommendations in the overall interest of the Ijaw Nation."
