The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has urged a referendum to reinstate regional governance in Nigeria, highlighting the need for immediate policy reforms to uphold democratic values and counter increasing militarization within the country’s political system.
The group cautioned that the growing militarization threatens Nigeria’s democratic principles.
The IYC expressed deep concerns over the persistent marginalization and injustice faced by the Ijaw people and the Niger Delta region. Despite their significant contribution to Nigeria’s economic prosperity, these communities remain excluded from fair representation and development.
In a statement by Bedford Berefa, the National Spokesman of the IYC, the organization called for a shift from the current authoritarian system to a more participatory and decentralized government structure, advocating for regional autonomy and inclusive decision-making processes. Berefa emphasized the need for a referendum to revert Nigeria to a regional government system akin to the pre-1966 era.
The IYC acknowledged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for including young people in ministerial positions but stressed that comprehensive democratic reforms must span all levels of governance.
Reaffirming their commitment to resource control and self-determination, as outlined in the 1998 Kaiama Declaration, the group pledged to continue advocating for a fairer and more just political system. They warned that the current democratic framework is outdated and perpetuates systemic inequalities.
“Our democracy has been militarized, sidelining the people. The power of the populace has been eroded, and manipulation and intimidation are rampant,” Berefa stated. “The IYC calls for an urgent review of our democracy, deeming it too autocratic. The executive branch amasses excessive power, exacerbating social injustice.”
The IYC demands a referendum to restore Nigeria to a regional government system, similar to the recent reversion to the old national anthem.
