INYC Defends Itsekiri Leaders, Faults UPU Youth Wing’s Criticism

The Itsekiri National Youth Council (INYC) has responded to a recent statement by the UPU Youth Wing Worldwide, accusing the group of applying double standards in its reaction to remarks allegedly made by some Itsekiri leaders.

In a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Hon. Tuoyo Ebigbeyi Awani, the council said while every ethnic group has the right to express concerns on issues affecting its people, public discourse must be guided by fairness, facts and consistency rather than what it described as selective outrage.

The INYC expressed concern that those now criticising alleged comments from Itsekiri leaders were reportedly silent when prominent figures from other ethnic groups made statements said to have threatened critical national assets and disrupted activities in Warri and surrounding communities.

It argued that such earlier remarks had raised widespread concern due to their potential impact on peace, public safety and economic stability, stressing that it was unfair to single out the Itsekiri nation while ignoring other similar situations.

The council also addressed comments attributed to Sir Alex Eyengho, stating that his reference to “tools” was literal and should not be interpreted as a threat.

According to the INYC, the word “tools” can refer to instruments, skills, knowledge, resources and other lawful means used to achieve legitimate objectives, adding that any contrary interpretation was based on assumption rather than intent.

The youth body maintained that the Itsekiri people have consistently pursued their interests through lawful and constitutional means while remaining committed to the protection of their heritage, rights and identity.

Rejecting any attempt to portray the Itsekiri nation as a threat to peace, the council reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful coexistence with neighbouring ethnic nationalities, including the Urhobo and Ijaw communities.

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It, however, vowed to continue challenging misinformation and narratives it believes unfairly misrepresent the Itsekiri people.

The council further called on youth organisations, traditional institutions, community leaders and government authorities to exercise restraint and promote dialogue in order to prevent escalation of ethnic tensions in the region.

INYC said the future of Delta State and the Niger Delta depends on cooperation, understanding and mutual respect among all ethnic groups, reiterating its commitment to those values while defending the dignity and interests of the Itsekiri nation.