The Deputy President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Comrade Freedom Atigbi, PhD, has formally declared his intention to contest the presidency of the council ahead of the 2026 elections.
Atigbi made the declaration in Benin City, Edo State, during a strategic meeting with his kinsmen drawn from the five clans, alongside their respective chairmen and other key stakeholders.
Speaking at the meeting, he sought their unwavering support, describing the moment as critical to the future of the Ijaw nation.
According to him, “We are at a defining moment in the Ijaw struggle. I consider it necessary to step into this race to consolidate the gains of the outgoing National Executive Council, led by Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri, Snr., while also learning from and improving on any identified shortcomings.”
Atigbi further pledged to intensify engagement with International Oil Companies (IOCs) and relevant government institutions to advance the collective demands of the Ijaw people and ensure their voices are adequately represented.
Addressing issues of marginalisation, particularly affecting Ijaw communities in Edo, Ondo, and Akwa Ibom states, he assured that such concerns would be critically addressed through quarterly stakeholder engagements aimed at promoting a unified Ijaw agenda.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for unity among Ijaw people across borders, describing it as the panacea for sustained brotherhood and a stronger collective front within the Nigerian state.
