The Igala Vanguard has formally dissociated the Igala nation from a planned protest at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, describing the move as a personal agenda rather than a collective ethnic grievance.
In a statement signed by Engr. Lawrence Ankpa, the group clarified that contrary to ongoing speculation, the Igala people are not organizing a protest against the electoral body.
Engr. Ankpa stated that concerns regarding ward creation in Kogi East are already being addressed through the appropriate channels. He noted that Kogi East elders have submitted their requests, which have been acknowledged by INEC, and a committee of Igala elites is currently liaising with the commission’s management to resolve the matter.
The Vanguard alleged that the protest is being orchestrated by the former Social Democratic Party (SDP) gubernatorial candidate, Muritala Ajaka. The group claimed that Ajaka, having lost political influence in Igala land, is seeking to regain relevance through staged demonstrations.
“Several prominent personalities reached out to the organizers to suspend the protest, but they insisted on proceeding,” the statement read. “We call on our brothers, the Okun people, and the general public to see this action for what it is: a personal agenda driven by Muritala Ajaka, not a movement by the Igala nation.”
Furthermore, the group urged the INEC Chairman not to be deterred by the planned protest. They emphasized that the proposed ward creation is essential to meeting the yearnings of the people and bringing governance closer to the grassroots.
The statement concluded by distancing the Igala people from the demonstration and advising Ajaka to abandon “deceitful and outdated political tactics,” asserting that his strategies have already been exposed.
