Published 9:26 pm Friday, July 24, 2026 Erwin Elias, the chair and CEO of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation (IRC), has stepped aside from his leadership role while under investigation for an “allegation.” The IRC made the announcement by way of a news release on Friday, indicating that Elias has taken leave from his leadership role. Although details of the allegation were not specified, it predates his election and will be independently investigated, the IRC stated. “The IRC board of directors is taking the matter seriously while respecting the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of everyone involved,” the news release reads. “IRC expects an update from the investigation in August, and the board is committed to reviewing it promptly and acting quickly to determine next steps. “Because the investigation is ongoing, IRC is not in a position to comment on the specifics of the allegation or the process at this time,” the news release continues. Elias was elected chair and CEO of the organization on Jan. 21. He previously served as mayor of Tuktoyaktuk. In an interview with NNSL Media in January, Elias emphasized that “I’m not here to hurt the organization. I think there is a lot of amazing work that’s been done throughout the years, and I commend Duane [Smith, former IRC chair] for that… I’m definitely up for the challenge, and I’m here for all the Inuvialuit people. Nothing’s going to happen overnight, but we’re definitely going to make sure that we try and meet the needs of the people.” His opponents in the IRC election were Lucy Kuptana, Hans Lennie, Duane Smith, Brian Wade, Kurt Wainman and Lawrence Ruben. While Elias is under investigation, IRC vice-chair Jordan McLeod will become acting chair.
Inuvialuit chair Erwin Elias under investigation due to unspecified allegation
