Ijaw group demands creation of Toru-Ebe, Oil Rivers states

The Ijaw Diaspora Council (IDC) has called for the creation of Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States from the existing Ijaw territories, emphasising the need for justice and equity in Nigeria’s ongoing restructuring process.

This demand was contained in an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, signed by IDC President, Prof. Sele Mondy Gold, and dated February 10, 2025.

The letter, made available to The Guardian, highlights the historical and socio-political justifications for the proposed states.

According to the IDC, Toru-Ebe State is envisioned as a political and economic stronghold for the Ijaw people in Delta, Edo, and Ondo states, uniting them into a single entity that amplifies their voice in governance, environmental protection, and development.

Similarly, Oil Rivers State would encompass Ijaw communities in Rivers and Akwa Ibom states, allowing them to reclaim their heritage, restore their dignity, and regain political leverage.

The letter read in part: “Members of the Ijaw Diaspora Council (IDC), whose global headquarters is situated in the United States of America, with administrative offices in the United Kingdom and Australia, and representing the entire Ijaw Diaspora worldwide, write this letter with the weight of history pressing upon them.

“We come bearing the collective voice of a people whose enduring struggles for justice, equity, and recognition have remained unmet for far too long. This letter is not a mere entreaty but a fair, respectful, and resolute demand for the establishment of two distinct states—Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers—out of the existing Ijaw Territory within the Nigerian federation. This call arises from the profound historical contributions, along with other ethnic nationalities, in the struggle leading to the independence of Nigeria in 1960.

“We also wish to remind Mr. President of the just and inalienable demands of the Ijaw people, who have, for generations, been systematically marginalized and silenced, despite their overwhelming political, economic, and financial contributions to the continued unity, peace, security, and prosperity of the nation.

“Redressing Political Balkanization: For decades, the Ijaw people in these regions have been divided, systematically reduced to a minority in multiple states, and denied the opportunity to exercise their collective political will. Toru-Ebe will unite these communities into a cohesive political entity, enabling them to assert their rightful place in both state and national governance while also ensuring timely environmental protection, as they are intrinsically connected to the land they inhabit.

“Harnessing Economic Potential: With its abundant oil and gas reserves, fertile fisheries, and agricultural potential, Toru-Ebe will not only make a substantial contribution to national revenue but will also leverage its economic resources to promote sustainable development for its people. A dedicated Ijaw state will address the glaring development deficit that has long plagued the region, ensuring a more equitable and sustainable distribution of national wealth.

“Ensuring Greater Peace & Amity: Ethnic tensions in the Niger Delta stem primarily from political exclusion, the inequitable distribution of resources, and unresolved damages to environmental livelihoods. The creation of Toru-Ebe will foster an environment of inclusivity, where ethnic communities can coexist peacefully, underpinned by shared prosperity and political representation.

“Oil Rivers State will encompass Ijaw communities in Rivers and Akwa Ibom, empowering them to reclaim their heritage, restore their dignity, and regain political leverage.

“Environmental Justice: The Ijaw homeland has suffered some of the world’s most severe environmental catastrophes. A state dedicated to the Ijaw people will enable them to enact and enforce policies to protect their land, waterways, and biodiversity, ensuring environmental justice for future generations.

“Development and Federal Presence: The Ijaw people are severely underrepresented in infrastructural development. Oil Rivers State will serve as an administrative hub, attracting federal investment and fostering international partnerships that will spur development in sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture/fisheries, the blue economy, and transportation. This will also serve as a catalyst for preserving Ijaw culture, language, and heritage, which are under existential threat due to political inequity and fragmentation.

“Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States—an imperative that will allow the Ijaw people to at least be justifiably integrated within the Nigerian federation.”

The letter also pointed out that the demand for the creation of the states is an urgent call to action for justice, equity, national stability, and security.

It added, “This is not merely a technical adjustment within the administrative machinery—it is an imperative for survival and a defining moment for the future of the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.

“The creation of Toru-Ebe and Oil Rivers States is not political expediency; it is a moral and legal responsibility, an urgent step towards preserving the fragile peace we are experiencing today, securing stability, and averting further conflict within the region—a duty we owe to the region and one that has, in part, informed our demand.

“The creation of these states will offer a crucial pathway to the empowerment of the Ijaw people and the continued peaceful resolution of systemic inequities, both in the region and the country.

“We implore the President of Nigeria, the Senate President, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to prioritize this critical demand within the framework of the ongoing constitutional review process, recognizing the inescapable necessity of this action and the potential constitutional roadblocks, and to support these demands to the fullest.”