The Ijaw Professional Association (IPA) has dissociated itself from a purported statement issued by some faceless individuals under the guise of ‘Ijaw professionals’, accusing the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, of engaging in a media trial of the immediate past Minister of State for Petroleum, Timpre Sylva, over an alleged murder case.
In a swift response to the publication signed by Clarkson Ayebaepreye, the IPA disowned the statement in its entirety, saying it did not authorise or recognise the unwarranted attack on the governor.
The release signed and issued on Friday in Lagos by its Chairman, Board of Trustees, Major General Paul Toun (rtd), and President, Mr. Pattison Boleigha, said as esteemed professionals, they were committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and respect for the rule of law and therefore would not join any pseudo-group to attack the governor.
The statement reads in part: “The Ijaw Professional Association is deeply concerned that individuals are misrepresenting themselves under the guise of our respected association to propagate personal or political agendas.”
This behaviour not only undermines the credibility of our association but also attempts to exploit the good name and reputation of the Ijaw nation for dubious purposes.
“The individual, Clarkson Ayebaepreye, and the so-called Ijaw Professionals group have no affiliation with or recognition from the Ijaw Professional Association. Their statements do not reflect the views, opinions or positions of the IPA or its legitimate members.
“The IPA supports due process and the rule of law. Governor Douye Diri’s actions, including directing the Attorney-General of Bayelsa State to investigate allegations, are consistent with lawful and procedural justice. We believe in the importance of allowing the legal process to take its course without undue interference or premature judgments.
“The IPA is firmly committed to justice, integrity and the protection of the Ijaw nation’s heritage. We condemn any attempt to politicise criminal investigations or use them as tools for political witch-hunts. Any allegations of wrongdoing should be thoroughly investigated by the appropriate authorities, and any accused individuals should be given the opportunity to defend themselves in a court of law.
“We urge all Ijaw professionals and groups to act with professionalism and respect for the truth. Misrepresentations and false statements only serve to damage the integrity of our community and undermine our collective efforts towards progress and development.”