JUST-IN/ Ijaw Women Stage Protest on East-West Road Over Wike’s Remarks

A group of Ijaw women from Bayelsa State has blocked the Imbiama section of the East-West Road in protest against what they describe as an attack on the Ijaw nation by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The demonstration, which is currently ongoing, has caused significant disruption to traffic along the major highway.

The protesters, dressed in traditional attire, are chanting songs and carrying placards condemning Wike’s recent comments and political actions. According to the demonstrators, the former Rivers State governor has continuously undermined the interests of the Ijaw people, despite their contributions to his political rise.

TrackNews Online report that the women arrived in large numbers, blocking the road and refusing to allow vehicles to pass. Some of the placards bear inscriptions calling for justice, unity, and respect for the Ijaw people. The protest is said to be a response to Wike’s alleged derogatory remarks and political maneuvers perceived as detrimental to Ijaw interests.

Security personnel have been deployed to the scene in an attempt to restore order, but the protesters remain resolute, insisting that their voices must be heard. Travelers and commuters along the East-West Road are experiencing delays as a result of the blockade.

Leaders of the Ijaw community have yet to issue an official statement on the protest, but sources indicate that tensions have been escalating due to political developments in Rivers and Bayelsa States. The women’s demonstration is seen as a sign of growing dissatisfaction with Wike’s influence in the region.

As the protest continues, there are concerns about its potential impact on movement and economic activities in the area. Authorities are reportedly engaging with the demonstrators to find a resolution and clear the blocked highway.