A youth leader and activist, Comrade Johnmartins Ijere, has formally declared his intention to contest for the position of National Spokesperson of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), ahead of the forthcoming national election.
Ijere made his declaration during a consultation visit to the Eastern Zonal Secretariat of the IYC over the weekend, where he was received by the Eastern Zone Chairman, Ambassador Prince Datolu Sukubo, and members of the zonal executive.
Addressing the executives, Ijere said his aspiration was driven by a genuine desire to serve the Ijaw nation and contribute meaningfully to the growth and repositioning of the foremost socio-cultural youth body of the Ijaw people.
He explained that his decision to consult the zone was in line with the principle that “charity begins at home,” stressing that he considered it necessary to seek the blessings and counsel of the Eastern Zone before formally embarking on the nationwide engagement.
The aspirant noted that he was offering himself for service, not personal ambition, and expressed confidence that his years of involvement in youth advocacy and grassroots mobilization had adequately prepared him for the responsibility of speaking for the Ijaw nation.
According to him, if elected, he would serve as a strong and credible voice for the people, amplifying issues of justice, equity and development affecting Ijaw communities across the country.
“I am ready to be the sound through which the voice of our people will be heard clearly and amplified. This is about redefining and strengthening the message of the Ijaw nation with clarity, courage and purpose,” he said.
Ijere further assured the zonal leadership of his loyalty to the Ijaw cause, stating that he had grown through the ranks of the struggle and understood the core values and aspirations of the youth constituency.
During the visit, the Datolu-led executive raised key concerns affecting the Ijaw nation, while the aspirant pledged to incorporate those concerns into his vision and agenda if elected as National Spokesperson.
Observers at the meeting described the consultation as constructive and timely, noting that the forthcoming IYC election presents an opportunity for renewed unity and strategic communication within the organization.
Ijere called on Ijaw youths to embrace unity of purpose and support credible leadership that would project the collective conscience of the people without compromise.
The IYC national election is expected to hold in the coming weeks.
By Nzeuzor Jane and Maduadugwo Jane, Port-Harcourt
