A retired Rear Admiral and presidential aspirant in the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Woyengidinikpete Geoffrey Yanga (Rtd), has expressed gratitude to his supporters following the suspension of the organisation’s elective congress, while calling for strict adherence to constitutional provisions.
In a message to members of “Team Yanga” and supporters across the Ijaw nation, Yanga thanked them for what he described as “uncommon all-round support” throughout his campaign.
He noted that many supporters stood by him despite not having prior personal relationships with him, a development he said reflected confidence in his character, training and leadership capacity.
The elective congress of the INC was recently suspended under what Yanga termed “unfortunate but avoidable” circumstances.
He stressed that the Ijaw people, with their long history of resisting oppression and marginalisation, must uphold the rule of law within their apex socio-cultural body.
According to him, adherence to the INC constitution is essential for ensuring fairness, transparency and legitimacy in the electoral process.
“He who goes for equity must go with clean hands,” Yanga said, warning that any deviation from constitutional guidelines would be tantamount to “building a house on shifting sand.”
Describing the suspension as a “temporary ceasefire,” he urged his supporters to remain calm, reorganise and prepare for the next phase of the process, reiterating his commitment to repositioning the Ijaw nation for greater influence within Nigeria and beyond.
Yanga concluded his message with the naval rallying call, “Onward together,” while praying for continued unity and progress among the Ijaw people.
Speaking further during an appearance on Talk to Bayelsa, a radio programme, the retired naval officer outlined his vision for the INC, saying his ambition is driven by a desire to “change the development narrative” of Ijaw communities in the Niger Delta.
He traced his motivation to his upbringing in Sabagreia community in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, noting that growing up without basic amenities shaped his resolve to pursue development-focused leadership.
“I know what it means to grow up without basic amenities,” he said.
Yanga, who served 35 years in the Nigerian Navy and rose to the rank of Rear Admiral, said his experience in both operational and administrative roles has equipped him with the skills needed to lead the organisation strategically.
He described his agenda as moving the INC “from struggle to strategy,” emphasising the need for a more coordinated approach in advancing the political, economic and cultural interests of the Ijaw people.
The aspirant also called for greater unity among Ijaw communities and the revitalisation of the INC’s structures at clan and community levels to enhance effectiveness and visibility.
He further advocated collective engagement with government and oil companies to attract development projects, improve infrastructure and advance the quest for resource control in the Niger Delta.
During the programme, callers highlighted persistent challenges in oil-producing communities, including lack of electricity, potable water and other basic amenities, while urging stronger leadership to address the region’s longstanding issues.
