Fatshimetrie, the Ijaw heritage in the Delta APC: A quest for recognition and representation
For several years, members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the Ijaw ethnic group in Delta State have felt marginalized and excluded from political decision-making. This exclusion not only affects the representativeness of the party in the region but also calls into question the internal cohesion and credibility of the APC among voters.
In a letter addressed to Elder Godsday Orubebe, chairman of the Delta APC reconciliation subcommittee, 65 representatives of the Ijaw members of the party expressed their dismay at the lack of representation of their community in key positions within the party. They highlight the fact that, despite their significant electoral weight in the region, the Ijaws are regularly neglected and ignored by the APC leadership.
This quest for recognition and representation within the party takes on a particular dimension as the 2023 general elections approach. The signatories to the letter stress the importance for the APC to recognize and value the support of the Ijaw communities, who hold a significant share of the votes in the Delta.
The letter highlights the leadership of some members of the Ijaw community, such as Elder Godsday Orubebe, who have been able to mobilize voters and obtain positive results for the party. However, despite these major contributions, the Ijaws feel abandoned and underrepresented within the APC.
More than a simple claim to political positions, this demand for recognition reflects a deep desire for inclusion and active participation in the party’s decision-making processes. The Ijaw members of the APC aspire to a sincere and balanced collaboration, which promotes the unity and electoral victory of the party in the region.
In conclusion, the quest for recognition of the Ijaw members of the Delta APC reflects a legitimate need for representation and justice within the party. By neglecting this community, the APC risks not only losing the crucial votes of Ijaw voters, but also compromising its credibility and internal unity. It is essential that the party takes into consideration the legitimate aspirations and contributions of the Ijaws to ensure its sustainability and electoral success in the Delta region.