The Central Zone leadership of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has intervened in the escalating Biseni crisis in Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, following widespread protests by women who set up roadblocks to demand the release of detained youths and address community neglect.
The unrest sparked when some community youth leaders were arrested by security forces following petitions linked to host community trust disputes, pushing aggrieved elders and women to shut down the only access road into the oil-producing kingdom.
The demonstration, which halted activities for major energy companies operating in the area, reportedly turned volatile when armed security personnel moved in to clear the blockades and disperse the peaceful demonstrators.
In a decisive move to restore order and protect community interests, the INC Central Zone Chairman who also doubles as Chairman of Akassa Council of Chiefs HRH Moses Theophilus Kenibara VII represented by the Vice Chairman, Chief Godwill Ayawei and other exco members met with critical stakeholders to defuse the brewing tension.
The socio-cultural apex body underscored that while the grievances regarding infrastructure deficit, environmental degradation from oil spills, and the perceived unjust detention of youth advocates are legitimate, a breakdown of law and order would only worsen the plight of the kingdom.
The leadership actively engaged both the security agencies and community representatives to secure an amicable framework for dialogue, aiming to de-escalate the standoff and prevent further clashes between residents and military forces and called for peace.
The INC Central Zone leadership has issued an urgent and passionate call to all relevant stakeholders, including the Bayelsa State Government, the leadership of Biseni Kingdom, operating oil firms, and the protesting citizens to urgently tow the path of peace and constructive dialogue in resolving the fundamental issues.
Earlier, Mrs. Mabel Agangila and Mrs. Joy Agunowei on behalf of the women commended the INC Central Zone leadership for intervening and demand the release of the arrested youths, reconstruction of the Biseni 1.4km road, constant electricity, restructuring of the Biseni leadership amongst others and promised to embrace peace.
The central Zone leadership of the INC had High Chief Godwill Selekeowei PhD Secretary, Mr. Onini Nelson Izonebi Treasurer, Mr. Garricks Obed Financial Secretary while Chief Godwill Ayawei Vice Chairman represented the Chairman, HRH Moses Theophilus Kenibara VII.