SOCIETY FOR THE WELFARE OF UNEMPLOYED YOUTHS OF NIGERIA (SWUYN) CONDEMNS VIOLENCE IN IJAW YOUTH COUNCIL ELECTION, CALLS FOR INVESTIGATION, ACTION, AND INTERVENTION BY IJAW LEADERS

16th September, 2024.

The Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN) is deeply disturbed by the recent outbreak of violence during the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Eastern Zone election in Rivers State, resulting in the loss of 13 lives, many injured, and destruction of properties.

We strongly condemn this senseless act of violence and call on the Federal Government of Nigeria, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, and the Eastern Zone State governments, particularly the Rivers State Government, His Excellency, Gov. Siminalayi Fubara, to immediately investigate this incident and take necessary measures to prevent future occurrences.

Furthermore, we call on critical leaders, stakeholders, and elders of the Ijaw nation, particularly the Bayelsa State governor, His Excellency, Gov. Douyi Diri and the Ijaw National Congress (INC), to intervene, caution, and take measures against this violence. We urge them to use their influence and wisdom to address the root causes of this conflict and work towards a peaceful resolution.

We appeal to the INC and other Ijaw leaders to:

1. Condemn the violence and encourage peaceful dialogue
2. Facilitate a meeting of all parties involved to resolve differences
3. Work with security agencies to ensure the safety of all citizens
4. Develop initiatives to address youth unemployment and empowerment

Moreover, we urge the State governments of Bayelsa, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Delta, Ondo, Edo (including Lagos and Abuja), where the IYC operates, to summon the National leadership of the IYC Worldwide, led by Comr. Jonathan Lokpobiri, to provide answers to the senseless of violence that happened under his leadership especially on:

1. The circumstances surrounding the violence
2. Measures taken to prevent future occurrences
3. Strategies for promoting peaceful and democratic processes within the organization

As an organization committed to the welfare and empowerment of unemployed youths, we are saddened by the fact that young people, who are supposed to be the leaders of tomorrow, are engaged in such destructive activities.

We urge the authorities to hold those responsible accountable for their actions and ensure that justice is served.

_Signed_

Comr. Preye V. Tambou

National President, SWUYN

Comr. Adewale Ganiyu

National Secretary, SWUYN

Comr. Abdulrazak mahmud Abdullahi

National Media/Publicity Secretary, SWUYN

Comr. Wisdom Asiazobor

National Public Relation Officer, SWUYN

Swuynnigeria@gmail.com