WISDOM ONIEKPAR IKULI
As the forthcoming national convention and election of the apex Ijaw socio-cultural body, the most revered Ijaw National Congress (INC) that is scheduled for 7th March, 2026 draws closer, unfolding events becomes more interesting with the commencement of the sales of form and lifting of ban on campaign.
Historically, Ijaw is one of the oldest tribes in the world, especially looking at the Biblical account of Genesis 11:1-9 that revolves around the building of Tower of Babel.
After the incident at the Tower of Babel and the confusion that ensued, Ijaws became one of the most dominant tribes in the area now known as the African continent. In Nigeria, Ijaw is the fourth largest tribe among the over 350 tribes. Very importantly too, it is the most dominant tribe in the geographic Niger Delta region.
From the 12th century, when Ijaws encountered European explorers and adventurers, particularly the Portuguese, to the advent of trade relationships with British trade merchants in the 18th century, Ijaws fought several wars to protect her territories, identity and economy.
History scholars particularly those who have researched on Ijaw history can divide the trend into four epochs. The first was the era where Ijaw kings like King Alfred William Koko of Nembe, King Amachree (Amakiri) of Kalabari, King Ibanichuka of Okrika, King Jaja of Opobo, King Perekule of Ancient Grand Bonny Kingdom and other Ijaw kings fought to protect Ijaw territories and economy.
The second epoch was the era of intellectual and diplomatic engagement. This epoch was led by High Chief Dappa-Biriye during the several London Conferences before the independence of Nigeria.
The above epoch is closely followed by Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro arm resistance before the contemporary struggle for the emancipation cum liberation of Ijaw Nation from economic and political servitude.
After the death of Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro, Ijaws never had any unifying or united umbrella body that brought them together.
The lack of a united umbrella and voice led to a sad situation where each clan and kingdom were on their own. There were several intra communal crisis among many Ijaw communities.
But the above changed when an illustrious son of the Ijaw Nation, Timi Kaiser-Wilhelm Ogoriba took a very bold and highly commendable step to reunite Ijaws under one umbrella.
The courageous effort of T.K Ogoriba led to the formation of the Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND). Thereafter, MOSIEND became a rallying point and unifying body for Ijaws. It brought Ijaws from West, East and Central zones together to demand for their rights in the Nigerian state.
The then renaissance and increasing consciousness witnessed the emergence of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) that was formed in 1991 at the first All-Ijaw National Convention that was held in Patani on November 23, 1991.
The above was followed by the formation of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) on the 11th December, 1998.
It is worthy to note that since the formation of the INC, the successive leaderships including those of Chief Joshua Fumudoh, Prof. Okoko and others to the present Prof. Benjamin Okaba led National leadership have continued to raise the unique Ijaw Flag higher and today, Ijaws have very loud and vocal voice that is heard globally.
As the Prof. Benjamin Okaba serves out her glorious and highly remarkable tenure, the whole Ijaw Nation is concerned about the future of the INC since leadership plays pivotal roles in the successes or otherwise of every organization and this is the exact reason why the spirit of the time about Elder T.K Ogoriba is not only instructive, but very timely too.
The “Spirit of the Time,” or Zeitgeist which are derived from two German words: Zeit (time) and Geist (spirit), refers to the dominant intellectual, cultural, and moral climate or mood that characterizes a specific era, shaping people’s beliefs, attitudes, and actions.
The spirit of the time reflects the collective ideas, trends, and aspirations unique to a historical period, influencing everything from art and literature to social movements and spirituality, and can be seen as a broader cultural expression of prevailing thoughts and feelings.
In spiritual context, time holds a deeper and more profound meaning. It is not just about minutes, hours, days, or years. It is about understanding the flow of existence, the eternal present, and our place within a larger, divine framework.
Elder T.K Ogoriba is one of the most notable Ijaw leaders that can be likened to High Chief Dappa-Biriye, King Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff, Chief (Sen.) Dr. Melford Obiene Okilo, Major Isaac Jasper Adaka Boro who had every opportunity to amass wealth for themselves, but rather choose to sacrifice everything for the greatness of the Ijaw Nation.
Looking at the contemporary issues in the Nigerian state, Ijaw Nation need a leader like Elder T.K Ogoriba who will stand courageously to speak to protect, project and promote Ijaw interest both nationally and internationally.
For close to four decades or thereabout, Elder T.K Ogoriba has dedicated his life to the service of the Ijaw Nation and humanity and this is another historic opportunity for him to serve diligently. I therefore humbly and passionately appeal to all sons and daughters of the Ijaw Nation especially the delegates to the forthcoming INC National Convention and Election to give him all the needed support.
– Most Senior Comrade Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli.