Apex body of Ijaw nation, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has called on Nigerians to defend the nation’s democracy from perceived enemies.

The call followed the unfolding events from the faceoff between the Rivers State Governor, Siminalaye Fubara and his predecessor and Federal Capital Territory, Minister, Nyesom Wike.

President of the INC, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, in a statement made available to journalists in Warri, claimed there was a plan to plunge Ijaw communities into a crisis that would justify emergency rule in Rivers State.

He, however, commended the Ijaw people for avoiding the “booby trap” and registering their displeasure through peaceful protests across the region.

Okaba warned of a broader political scheme targeted at democracy in Nigeria, raising concerns about the future implications of such political manoeuvres.

Parts of the statement read: “We call on Nigerians to stand against the enemies of democracy, a group of individuals who are bent on grabbing and retaining power at all costs.”

The statement commended the women of Abalama for their peaceful protest, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Eastern Zone, for cancelling their proposed meeting at Abalama, and as well, acknowledged the wisdom of King Asari Dokubo for withdrawing his surveillance personnel from the Emouha-Kalabari road to prevent unwarranted confrontation and bloodshed.

According to him, those attempting to remove Governor Siminalayi Fubara have resorted to inciting violence to justify the imposition of a state of emergency.

Urging continued restraint, Okaba hinted at a future confrontation if genuine efforts are not put in place and urgently, to stop “this madness,” adding that the lNC should not be held accountable.

It would be recalled that the FCT Minister, Wike, was hosted at a thanksgiving ceremony at Abalama, Asari-Toru council area of Rivers state, weekend. (The Nation)