Amb. Egelu Bright Calls for Harmonious Conduct in IYC, Lagos Chapter Election

PRESS RELEASE!

Date: 11 June 2025

 

Good day, fellow patriots in the noble struggle for resource control and self-determination by every legitimate means necessary.

Amb. Egelu Edise-emi Bright

Peaceful coexistence is both fundamental and sine qua non to the building of a harmonious and thriving society. It calls for individuals and council members to live and work together in mutual respect, empathy, and understanding.

 

Permit me to revisit the historical essence of this clarion call.

 

Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, Nigeria’s first secessionist and one of the most celebrated heroes in Ijaw history perhaps dreamt of resource control and self-determination, aspirations that sought to bring about the development we all desire in the Niger Delta. Regrettably, his life and struggle in pursuit of these noble dreams were tragically short-lived.

 

However, Boro’s agitation was never intended to sow division or destroy his brethren, but rather to promote peaceful coexistence, growth, and sustainable development within the Ijaw ethnic nationality and the Niger Delta at large. It is in this spirit that I draw your attention to the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Lagos Chapter—especially as the hands of the electoral clock tick ever closer.

IYC LAGOS CHAPTER ELECTION 2025

 

The forthcoming election, which seeks to elect patriotic leaders committed to the actualisation of Boro’s vision, must not be treated as a matter of life and death. Let us channel our God-given strength towards peace-building and constructive engagement.

 

It is pertinent to note that I have personally participated in vigorously contested elections at the national level without animosity or conflict. By the grace of God, that election resulted in my emergence as the Assistant National Secretary-General, and currently the Acting National Secretary-General of IYC Worldwide—the universally esteemed socio-cultural organisation recognised across Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa.

 

My contributions to human capital development and the promotion of unity among Niger Delta youths are driven by the belief that the advancement of young people is integral to the building of a prosperous nation.

 

Let us therefore set aside our differences and unite for the betterment of the Ijaw nation.

 

I take this opportunity to appeal to all duly screened candidates and delegates participating in the forthcoming IYC Lagos Chapter election to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the law. Let us anticipate a calm, orderly, and violence-free electoral process that reflects the values we espouse.

 

God bless the Ijaw Nation.

 

Yours in the struggle,

Amb. Egelu Edise-emi Bright

Acting National Secretary-General,

Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide

NSF 2024: Evah Slams Kano Govt for 22 Young Athletes' Negligence-Related Deaths

By Perekeme Odon

The nation remains in deep mourning following the tragic loss of 22 young Nigerian athletes and officials who perished in a fatal road crash on May 31 2025, while returning from the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged 'Gateway Games' 2024, held in Abeokuta, Ogun State. What was meant to be a celebratory return for the Kano State contingent turned into a national tragedy.

Comrade Joseph Evah

The ill-fated vehicle, reportedly carrying 30 passengers—including adolescent athletes, coaches, medical personnel, state officials, and a journalist—was making the over 1,000-kilometre journey back to Kano when it veered off course and crashed near Dakatsalle Bridge, within Kura Local Government Area, approximately 40 kilometres from the state capital. Survivors have claimed that the bus, said to be more than 30 years old, suffered multiple mechanical failures during the trip and had been in visibly poor condition before departure.

 

The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and renewed scrutiny over the safety measures (or lack thereof) surrounding state-sponsored transport for national events. Kano State’s commendable medal haul of 29 from the competition now lies eclipsed by a tragedy that, many argue, could have been wholly avoided.

(L-R) Moses Efeakpokrire, Chief Elijah, Comrade Evah &  Rachael Nwabi

At a press conference held in Lagos on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, Comrade Joseph Evah, former President of the Nigeria Skating Federation and Coordinator of the Ijaw Monitoring Group (IMG), launched a scathing rebuke against the Kano State Government, accusing it of gross negligence in the handling of logistics for the state's athletes.

 

“This was not an accident—it was the result of systemic negligence,” Evah declared. “We are in a period of mourning, not just for these 22 promising youths, but for what their deaths represent: the continued failure of our leadership to prioritise the lives and futures of Nigerian children.”

 

Drawing upon first-hand accounts from survivors, Evah revealed that the vehicle had suffered repeated breakdowns throughout the journey, pointing to what he described as administrative recklessness in assigning a decades-old bus for such a critical trip.

Team Kano at the Gateway Games 2024 National Sports Festival copy

“What state, particularly one as wealthy and culturally esteemed as Kano, sends its youth over a thousand kilometres in a bus that should have been decommissioned years ago?” he asked. “Would the same vehicle be used to transport politicians on campaign tours? Would it be used for a state function?”

 

Evah further criticised the government’s response to the tragedy, particularly its decision to offer ₦1 million in compensation to the families of each deceased athlete. He described the gesture as deeply inadequate and offensive, especially in light of well-documented government spending on less urgent priorities.

 

“One million naira is not compensation—it is an insult,” he said. “Politicians waste billions on extravagant lifestyles, yet families who lost children representing their state are handed envelopes and platitudes. Where is the dignity in that?”

The Bus

He called upon the Governor of Kano State, Abba Yusuf, and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, to pay personal condolence visits to the bereaved families and to provide more meaningful reparations. Evah also demanded the construction of a permanent memorial to honour the 22 fallen athletes.

 

Referencing his past advocacy during the 2011 killing of NYSC members in Bauchi State, Evah underscored the importance of media and civic engagement:

 

“In this country, life is cheap unless people rise and demand accountability. When we protested the killings of youth corps members, the government was forced to act. We must not allow this tragedy to fade into silence.”

 

Rachael Nwabi, of the National Association of Ijaw Female Students Alumni, echoed these sentiments. She questioned the value placed on the lives of youth athletes and called for the construction of a national monument bearing the names of the deceased, ideally within a stadium, to immortalise their sacrifice and inspire future generations.

 

“What does ₦1 million mean to a mother who sent her son to represent his state, only to receive a death notice in return?” she asked. “At the very least, visit these families. Show them that their loss has been acknowledged.”

(L-R) Comrade Evah, Chief Elijah, Moses Efeakpokrire, & Rachael Nwabi

Chief Elijah Andrew, Chief of Staff of the Ijaw Monitoring Group, added a sharp critique of government spending priorities, noting: “It is shameful that in the same country where alleged payments are made to terrorists, families of national heroes receive mere tokens. These youths deserved state burials and recognition befitting their contribution.”

 

Comrade Moses Efeakpokrire, Secretary of the Niger Delta Peoples Forum, concluded the press event by calling for a thorough investigation into the incident and legislative reform around athlete safety and travel provisions. He, too, reiterated the need for monuments and street namings in honour of the deceased.

 

This catastrophe, borne of apparent institutional neglect, has raised far-reaching questions about governance, safety, and the sanctity of youth life in Nigeria. It is a call not just for mourning, but for urgent action—to ensure that never again are young Nigerians sent out to bring glory to their states, only to return in coffins.

NCAC Lagos Prayer Chambers Marks 11th Anniversary in Grand Style

 By Perekeme Odon

LAGOS — In a vibrant testament to faith, unity, and enduring commitment, the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Lagos Creative Hub’s interdenominational fellowship group, The Prayer Chambers, joyfully celebrated its 11th anniversary banquet convention on 14th May 2025, at the NCAC Red Brick facility within the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos State.

Anchored with professional finesse by Comrade Bimbo Oluyeye, Secretary of RATTAWU Lagos State, the event brought together Christian staff and friends from various backgrounds and denominations to honour the fellowship’s legacy, reflect on its journey, celebrate God’s enduring faithfulness, but also an opportunity to rekindle purpose, unity, and gratitude within the NCAC community.

Pastor Azubuike Ezeiwu

Established through the quiet inspiration of Pastor G. E. O. Aleburu and Mrs Christina E. Ogbolu, then staff of the Accounts and Finance Department, The Prayer Chambers began with only six members. It has since flourished into a zonal fellowship of 52 regular attendees, meeting weekly for one hour every Wednesday. The fellowship has become a cornerstone of NCAC Lagos Creative Hub's cultural and spiritual life, nurturing a strong sense of community among staff.

(l-r)Reverend Olaniyi, Pst Aleburu, Pst Okhahia & Bro Babatope

The anniversary celebration was marked by heartfelt worship, vibrant fellowship, thanksgiving and uplifting testimonies that underscored the personal and collective experiences of divine grace over the years. Four of the six founding members—Pastor Aleburu, Mrs Ogbolu, Bro. Pius Emoh Okhakia and Bro. Olatunji Babatope were present, adding nostalgic warmth to the occasion.

Reverend Femi Olaniyi

The spiritual crescendo of the celebration was reached with a culminating soul-stirring, powerful sermon during "The Word" delivered by Reverend Femi Olaniyi, who urged attendees to embody purpose and integrity in their workplaces, calling for renewed dedication to both faith and professional responsibilities wherever one is positioned. It served as a timely reminder for all to reassess their purpose, rededicate themselves to excellence, and express gratitude for divine guidance in their careers.

Comrade Bimbo Oluyeye

Pastor Azubuike Ezeiwu, Coordinator of The Prayer Chambers, remarked, “This milestone not only reflects our growth but also reaffirms the Creative Hub’s appreciation of faith as a vital part of our institutional culture. In a world marked by constant change, this fellowship remains a quiet force of unity, strength, and grace within the NCAC family."

(l-r) Pst Ezeiwu, Pst Aleburu, Mrs Ogbolu, Revd Olaniyi & Pst Okhakia

As the curtains fell on this remarkable celebration, the message was clear: faith at work is not only possible but powerful, and as The Prayer Chambers continues its journey, it does so with hearts full of gratitude and eyes set on the future.

Anniversary Cake

A Cross Section of Attendees

Pastor G. E. O. Aleburu

Bro. Pius Emoh Okhakia

Bro. Olatunji Babatope

Mrs Mario Okeke

Mrs Adaeze Ikeh & Mrs Ngozi Okutuo

Mrs. Chika Precious Williams-Enema

.......

Ifeoma

Mrs Cynthia Udokaogu

Mrs Christiana E. Ogbolu

(l-r) Mrs Sandra Kalu, Mrs Agatha Akwaka & Mrs Nwankwo

Pastor Azubuike Ezeiwu,

Mrs Osunpidan & Mrs Sandra Kalu

Ifeoma in a Worship Mood

Mrs Tolutope Ayeni

Chika and Ngozi

AMARA

Perekeme Odon is a journalist and cultural commentator who focus on faith-based community initiatives and public service development in Nigeria.

Niger Deltans in Lagos Celebrate Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark

 By Perekeme Odon

LAGOS, NIGERIA — While the funeral rites for the late elder statesman, Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, CFR, CON (1927–2025) were being solemnly observed in his hometown of Kiagbodo, Delta State, in a resounding display of unity, reverence, and cultural pride, members of the Niger Delta community, dignitaries, activists, students, and community groups residing in Lagos gathered on Tuesday, 13 May 2025, at the Tam Royal Multipurpose Hall in Alapere, Ketu, Lagos, to honour the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of the formidable voice of the Niger Delta, whose impact continues to inspire and ignite passion across generations.

Chief (Dr.) Senator Edwin Kiagbodo Clark CFR, CON

Themed “It’s the End of an Era in Nigeria – The Last of the Old Brigade”, the event drew together representatives from the Ijaw Nation, the wider Niger Delta region, and the broader Lagosian community, including women’s organisations and associations of the physically challenged. The gathering stood as a testament to the extraordinary impact of Pa Clark, a man who spent nearly a century advocating for justice, equity, and national unity.

 

In his opening address, Comrade Joseph Evah, Convener and Coordinator of the Ijaw Monitoring Group (IMG), expressed deep gratitude to attendees for their presence and delivered a poignant call to action. “With the passing of Pa Clark, the Ijaw Nation must rise to the occasion. We must now take full responsibility for shaping our future,” he declared solemnly.

Addressing members of the press, Comrade Evah described Pa Clark as a “post-Civil War hero and a Lagosian,” referencing his tenure as Federal Commissioner under General Yakubu Gowon, his service as a Senator in Lagos, and his most recent marriage, which took place in Maryland, Lagos. “He truly belonged to Lagos, and this gathering is a fitting tribute to the life he lived,” Evah remarked.

 

Reflecting on Pa Clark’s unique role in Nigerian history, Evah highlighted his unparalleled memory, deep grasp of national affairs, and unwavering commitment to national unity. “He harboured no bias. He believed in Nigeria, and in his memory, we pray that leaders of his calibre emerge in every generation.”

Comrade Joseph Evah

Evah concluded by noting that the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) and the Ijaw National Congress (INC) must now enter a new phase of introspection and strategy. “During his lifetime, many of us acted like children under his watchful gaze. Now, reality has set in. The Niger Delta must return to the drawing board.”

 

Delivering the keynote address, Lagos State University Head of Department of Microbiology, Professor Dauphin Dighitoghi Moro, paid glowing tribute to Pa Clark’s intellectual and activist contributions. “He was the first to speak truth to the Nigerian government regarding injustices in the Niger Delta, even before and after the Isaac Boro 12-Day Revolution,” Prof Moro noted. “His death is not an end, but a continuation of the vision he embodied.”

A Cross Section

However, Prof. Moro expressed concern about the current state of leadership within the Niger Delta. He urged the INC and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) to overcome their divisions. “There is currently a vacuum, and many are scrambling to fill it. But there can be no replacement for Pa Clark. The INC and IYC must find common ground, work as a unified body, and re-strategise on critical issues like resource control and restructuring.”

 

The event’s cultural segment was a vivid expression celebrating heritage, featuring captivating displays of traditional masquerades, indigenous dances, and the ceremonial welcome of Miss NAIFS, who was formally introduced to the Ijaw female students’ body in Lagos—a symbolic moment honouring the role of women in continuing the legacy of the Ijaw struggle.

Comrade Joseph Evah & Mrs Preye Evah

True to tradition, the Ijaw Monitoring Group rounded off the event with the presentation of awards and a distribution of food items, cash gifts, fabrics and other tokens of appreciation, creating an atmosphere of celebration and gratitude amid the solemnity of loss.

 

This commemorative occasion not only honoured the memory of Chief Dr. Senator Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark but also reaffirmed the commitment of the Niger Delta and Ijaw peoples to preserve his enduring legacy and continue the struggle for progress and unity.

(l-r) Comrade Karebo Samson, Mrs. Patience Ogbogbo & Prof. D. D Moro

Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark (E.K. Clark) possesses an impressive and distinguished record of service to Nigeria. A trained lawyer and seasoned administrator, he has long been recognised as the paramount Ijaw National Leader, as well as a dedicated nationalist and freedom fighter. Chief Clark has held prominent leadership roles, including as the convener of the South-South Peoples Assembly, a principal figure in the Southern and Middle-Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF), and the leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF).

 

His public service career spans several decades and key positions: Commissioner for Education in the former Mid-Western Region from 1968 to 1971; Commissioner for Finance and Establishments in the erstwhile Bendel State from 1972 to 1975; Federal Commissioner for Information in 1975; and Senator of the Federal Republic from 1979 to 1983. His enduring commitment to national development and regional equity underscores his stature as a respected elder statesman.

 

As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its last towering statesmen of the independence era, the words heard most often in the hall were not of mourning, but of resolve—a promise that Pa Edwin Kiagbodo Clark’s vision for justice, unity, and a truly inclusive Nigeria shall not die with him.

Dignitaries On The High table

Comrade Joseph Evah, Mrs Preye Evah & Miss NAIFS

(l-r) Miss Doubrah Samuel, Pst. Ebitimi Dio-Posibi, Mrs Justina Okwuadei

Comrade Joseph Evah & Dancer Williams Awala

Comrade Evah in an Hand shake With Mrs. Patience Ogbogbo of IWLF

Miss Doubrah Samuel & High Chief Andrew Elijah

Miss NAIFS in a Cultural Display With the Dancers

Masquerade Display

Mrs. Adigha Odili, President, Izon Ebilade Ogbo & Comrade Evah

Traditional Dance Display

Wrestling Contest

Masquarade Display

Rear View of Williams Awala & His Dancers

A Display of Cultural Dances

Comrade Tikima I. Arigban (Chairman IYC Lagos) & Rep of IJC

Award Presentation to a Great Wrestler

Procession Drummers

Miss NAIFS & Dancers

(L-R)Timipaere Biegbudu, Karebo Samson, Mrs Patince Ogbogbo & Prof Moro

Comrade Joseph Evah Addressing the Audience