By Kalada Jumbo
In what could be described as an unparalleled show of appreciation, the Rivers Ijaw Peoples Congress (RIPCO) has set the stage for a grand reception in honour of Chief (Barr) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. The group has inaugurated a colossal 300-Man Planning Committee, a move that underscores the significance of this event not only for the Ijaw community in Rivers State but also for the entire Nigerian political landscape. This reception, according to RIPCO, will be a memorable occasion, cementing Wike’s legacy as a leader who has championed the cause of the Ijaw people.
The Rivers Ijaw Peoples Congress (RIPCO) has set the stage for a grand reception in honour of Chief (Barr) Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. August 12, 2024.
A Historic Gathering: The Birth of a Civic Celebration
The announcement, made during a general meeting of RIPCO, was nothing short of monumental. Senator George Thompson Sekibo, the leader of RIPCO and a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, articulated the collective sentiment of the Rivers Ijaw people. He declared that the grand reception is not just a ceremonial event but a symbolic gesture of gratitude towards Chief Wike, who has been an unwavering ally and advocate for the Ijaw community throughout his political career.
“The Ijaw people have always stood by their own,” Senator Sekibo stated emphatically. “This reception is our way of showing appreciation for what Chief Wike has done for us. Despite the challenges and political turbulence in Rivers State, we want to make it clear that the entire Ijaw community stands firmly behind him.”
Senator Sekibo’s words resonate deeply within the Ijaw community, particularly in the eleven Ijaw-speaking Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Rivers State. These LGAs, which include Okrika, Bonny, Opobo/Nkoro, Andoni, Degema, and others, have long been the bedrock of Ijaw cultural and political identity. The upcoming reception is expected to bring together a diverse array of Ijaw leaders, traditional rulers, politicians, and grassroots supporters, all united in their support for Wike.
A 300-Man Committee: The Powerhouse Behind the Reception
To ensure that this event is nothing short of spectacular, RIPCO has inaugurated a 300-Man Planning Committee, a task force divided into over twenty specialized sub-committees. Each committee is meticulously crafted to handle specific aspects of the event, from venue and decoration to logistics and mobilization. The leadership of this expansive committee structure reflects the seriousness with which RIPCO is approaching this historic occasion.
At the helm of the Central Planning Committee is none other than Senator George Sekibo himself, a man whose political acumen and dedication to the Ijaw cause are well-known. Under his leadership, RIPCO aims to deliver a reception that will be remembered for generations.
Among the key sub-committees are:
Venue and Decoration Committee: Chaired by Chief Dr. Dax George-Kelly Alabo, with Hon. Ojukaye Flag-Amakiri as the Alternate Chairman. This committee is tasked with transforming the event venue into a visual spectacle that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the Ijaw people.
Mobilization Committee: Led by Hon. Major Jack, this committee will ensure that every corner of the Ijaw-speaking LGAs is mobilized to participate in the reception. Their goal is to gather a massive turnout that will showcase the unity and strength of the Ijaw community.
Logistics/Transportation Committee: Chaired by Engr. Samson Ngeribara, this committee will handle the intricate details of transportation and logistics, ensuring that attendees from far and wide can participate without any hitches.
The comprehensive structure of these committees indicates that RIPCO is leaving no stone unturned in its preparations. Each committee is composed of individuals carefully selected for their expertise and proven track records, making this one of the most well-organized civic events in recent memory.
Ijaw Solidarity: Wike’s Enduring Legacy
Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike’s political journey has been marked by a steadfast commitment to the Ijaw cause, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by the Ijaw people. During his tenure as Governor of Rivers State, Wike made significant strides in promoting the welfare and development of the Ijaw community. His efforts were pivotal in ensuring that an Ijaw son, in the person of Siminialayi Fubara, was elected as the Governor of Rivers State, a historic achievement that cemented Wike’s reputation as a true leader of his people.
But Wike’s influence extends beyond Rivers State. As the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, he now holds a critical position in Nigeria’s federal administration, a role that allows him to advocate for the Ijaw people on a national scale. His recent appointments of prominent Ijaw figures to key federal positions are a testament to his commitment to uplifting his community.
Among these appointments are Chief Boma Iyaye as the Executive Director of Finance and Administration (EDFA) at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dame Maureen Tamuno as the Nigerian Ambassador to Jamaica, and Chief Dr. Dax George-Kelly Alabo as the Director-General/Executive Secretary of the Border Community Development Agency (BCDA). These appointments have not only brought pride to the Ijaw community but have also positioned them strategically within the corridors of power.
The Director General of RIPCO, Hon. Rowland Sekibo, captured the essence of Wike’s legacy in his opening remarks during the meeting. “Ijaw people are bold, cautious, and grateful,” he said. “We stand by Chief Wike because he has allowed himself to be used by God to bless the Ijaw Nation in Rivers State. Our support for him is unwavering, and we believe that every effort put into this endeavour will yield positive results.”
A Tour of Ijaw LGAs: Strengthening the Grassroots
In a bid to ensure that the upcoming reception truly represents the collective will of the Ijaw people, RIPCO’s leadership has announced a tour of all the Ijaw-speaking LGAs in Rivers State. This tour is aimed at establishing and inaugurating leadership structures within each LGA, thereby ensuring that grassroots voices are not only heard but are integral to the planning and execution of the reception.
Senator George Sekibo emphasized the importance of grassroots involvement in his address, stating that the tour will allow RIPCO to connect with the people at the community level. “We want to make sure that every Ijaw person feels a part of this event,” he said. “This reception is not just for the elites; it is for every Ijaw man and woman who has stood by Chief Wike and supported his vision for our people.”
The tour is expected to be a significant mobilization effort, with RIPCO leaders meeting with traditional rulers, community leaders, and local politicians to discuss the importance of the reception and to gather input on how to make it a resounding success. This grassroots approach is in line with the Ijaw tradition of communal decision-making, where the collective will of the people is paramount.
The Role of Women and Youth in the Reception
RIPCO’s inclusivity extends beyond the political elites and traditional rulers. The organization has made it clear that women and youth will play a crucial role in the planning and execution of the grand reception. Several sub-committees within the 300-Man Planning Committee are dedicated to ensuring that these groups are well-represented and actively involved.
Women have always been a driving force in Ijaw society, and their contributions to this reception will be no different. From coordinating cultural performances to managing hospitality, Ijaw women are expected to bring their unique skills and perspectives to the event. This inclusion of women in such a prominent role is a reflection of RIPCO’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women in leadership.
Similarly, the youth, who represent the future of the Ijaw Nation, are being given a platform to contribute. The mobilization of youth groups across the Ijaw-speaking LGAs is already underway, with the aim of ensuring that the younger generation is fully engaged in the event. Their involvement is seen as crucial not only for the success of the reception but also for the continuity of the Ijaw struggle in the years to come.
A Message to the Nation: The Significance of the Reception
The grand reception for Chief Wike is more than just a ceremonial event; it is a powerful message to the entire nation. For the Ijaw people, this reception is an affirmation of their identity, unity, and resilience. It is a declaration that the Ijaw Nation remains a formidable force within the Nigerian federation, capable of influencing national discourse and decisions.
But beyond the Ijaw community, this event holds significance for Nigeria as a whole. It highlights the intricate dynamics of Nigerian politics, where ethnic and regional loyalties continue to play a pivotal role. The reception is a reminder of the importance of political alliances and the impact of leaders like Wike, who have the ability to bridge divides and bring people together.
For Chief Wike, the reception is a validation of his leadership and his enduring popularity within the Ijaw community. It is a testament to his political acumen and his ability to navigate the complex landscape of Nigerian politics. As he consolidates on his role as Minister of the FCT, this reception will undoubtedly serve as a source of strength and inspiration, reaffirming his commitment to serving not just the Ijaw people, but the entire nation.
Conclusion: A Historic Event in the Making
As RIPCO moves forward with its plans for the grand reception, the anticipation is palpable. The 300-Man Planning Committee, with its carefully selected leaders and members, is working tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfect. The involvement of grassroots leaders, women, and youth further strengthens the event’s foundation, making it a true representation of the Ijaw people’s collective will.
This reception is poised to be a historic event, one that will be remembered for generations. It is a celebration of Chief Wike’s achievements, a reaffirmation
of Ijaw unity, and a bold statement of political solidarity. For the Ijaw people, it is an opportunity to showcase their culture, their strength, and their unwavering support for one of their own.
As the date of the reception approaches, all eyes will be on Rivers State, where the Ijaw Nation is preparing to honour a leader who has made an indelible mark on their history. The grand reception for Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike is not just an event; it is a movement, a symbol of the enduring power of the Ijaw people and their place in the Nigerian federation.