The passing of Ndoropere Bekes has sparked an outcry within the Ijaw community, with many questioning the neglect he suffered during his battle with illness. In a heartfelt statement on his Facebook handle, Adeseyaikpemi Padebi condemned the sudden show of concern from individuals who failed to support him when he was alive but are now eager to contribute to his funeral expenses.
Bekes, a respected figure in Ijaw music, had been soliciting financial assistance from friends, colleagues, and well-wishers for medical treatment. Despite his numerous pleas, support was scarce. According to reports, only a few individuals, including Kestin Pondi and Barrister Smooth, extended a helping hand. Officer Dinho also took the initiative to share an account number for voluntary contributions, yet only a handful of people responded.
Adeseyaikpemi Padebi, in his recent post, expressed frustration over the hypocrisy of those who are now rushing to fund his casket and burial arrangements. He lamented the harsh reality where people prioritise honouring the dead over supporting the living.
“The Ijaw Music Association, which should have stood as a pillar of support, was nowhere to be found when one of their own needed them the most,” Padebi wrote. “Now, at his burial, musicians from different places will gather to pay their last respects. But where were they when he was in desperate need?”
The lack of solidarity within the Ijaw music industry has once again been brought to light, exposing the failure of musicians to rally behind their own in times of distress. The industry, known for producing some of the most vibrant cultural sounds, has been called out for its negligence and lack of structure to support struggling artists.
This tragedy raises crucial questions about the values upheld within the Ijaw music fraternity. Why is it that so many artists struggle in silence, only to be celebrated in death? Why does the industry fail to provide the necessary support systems for its members in need?
As the Ijaw music community mourns the loss of Ndoropere Bekes, the moment calls for introspection and urgent action. If meaningful changes are not made, his death will be yet another painful reminder of how little is done to uplift musicians facing hardship. The time to prioritise the well-being of living artists over grand funeral gestures is long overdue.
May Ndoropere Bekes rest in peace, and may his passing serve as a wake-up call for the Ijaw music industry to change its ways.
