The leaders of ex-agitators under the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) have thrown their weight behind the newly inaugurated President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Mac Donald Igbadiowei.

They, however, urged stakeholders across the Niger Delta to unite behind his leadership.

Speaking shortly after the inauguration at the weekend in Delta State, the National Chairman of PAP Phase 2, Ibena Rufus Salvation, described Igbadiowei’s emergence as a pivotal step toward peace and stability in the Ijaw nation.

He called on Ijaw leaders and youths to set aside differences and work with the new INC executive.

Ibena also commended key figures in the region for their roles in fostering unity and development.

He said, “I want to appreciate High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, High Chief Dr Dennis Burutu Otuaro, Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, and High Chief Keston Pondi for their support in promoting peace, unity, and Ijaw culture.”

He stressed that the inauguration comes at a critical time for the Niger Delta, with growing political and developmental challenges requiring a united front.

“I urge every Ijaw leader to support Mac Donald Igbadiowei so we can bring more peace and unity to our nation,” Ibena added.

The PAP Phase 2 chairman also paid tribute to the immediate past INC President, Professor Benjamin Okaba, praising him for his integrity in office.

“I thank Professor Okaba for standing firm and standing by the truth. That is what Ijaw stands for — truth. That is what is expected of us,” he noted.

The Ijaw National Congress is the apex socio-cultural body of the Ijaw people and plays a central role in regional advocacy and cultural preservation.