In what political observers within the Niger Delta youth movement have described as a defining moment ahead of the forthcoming national elections of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), frontline aspirant for the office of National Director of Mobilization, Comrade Olu-Derimon, on Wednesday formally presented his ambition to the leadership of the Western Zone, a strategic bloc within the council’s structure.
The high-level engagement, which took place under the leadership of Western Zone Chairman Comrade Nicholas Igharama, attracted key stakeholders, clan leaders, youth mobilizers and political actors from across Edo and Delta Ijaw communities. The visit formed part of a deliberate political consultation aimed at consolidating grassroots support and strengthening strategic alliances ahead of the anticipated electoral contest within the council.
A Candidate with Experience and Strategic Vision
Addressing the zonal leadership during the meeting, Comrade Olu-Derimon outlined his vision for a more vibrant and coordinated mobilization architecture within the IYC. Drawing from his previous service as Secretary in the Western Zone administration, the aspirant emphasized that his experience within the organization has equipped him with a deep understanding of the council’s operational dynamics and the challenges confronting Ijaw youths across the Niger Delta.
According to him, the position of National Director of Mobilization requires not merely political ambition but a tested capacity to unify diverse youth constituencies, strengthen communication between zones, and galvanize young people toward constructive engagement in regional development and advocacy.
Olu-Derimon therefore appealed to delegates, opinion leaders and stakeholders across the Western Zone to support his candidacy, assuring them that his leadership would usher in innovative, inclusive and robust mobilization strategies capable of repositioning the council for greater impact.
He stressed that the IYC remains one of the most influential youth platforms in the Niger Delta and must therefore continue to serve as a vehicle for unity, advocacy, and responsible leadership among Ijaw youths.
Western Zone Leadership Reacts
Responding on behalf of the zonal leadership, Western Zone Chairman Comrade Nicholas Igharama warmly received the aspirant and his delegation, describing Olu-Derimon as a familiar and respected figure within the council.
According to Igharama, the aspirant “needs no introduction” within the Western Zone due to his previous service and contributions to the growth of the organization.
He further characterized Olu-Derimon as “a man with capacity to deliver any assignment entrusted to him,” noting that the aspirant’s track record of dedication and administrative competence remains well known among members of the council.
Edo Five Clan Chairmen Throw Weight Behind Candidate
Perhaps the most significant political development during the visit was the unanimous endorsement of Olu-Derimon by the Edo Five Clan Chairmen, a powerful coalition representing Ijaw communities in Edo State.
The clan leaders declared that supporting Olu-Derimon’s aspiration represents a strategic opportunity for Edo Ijaws, who they noted have experienced prolonged marginalization within the broader power structure of regional youth politics.
According to the chairmen, Olu-Derimon has consistently stood as a reliable advocate for the interests of Edo Ijaw communities, while also demonstrating a broader commitment to the unity and advancement of the entire Niger Delta region.
They therefore urged delegates and stakeholders to rally behind his candidacy in order to strengthen inclusive representation within the council’s national leadership.
High-Powered Delegation Accompanies Campaign
The declaration visit was attended by a formidable delegation of respected figures within the Ijaw political and youth leadership space.
Among those present were Hon. Fred Afoegba (popularly known as “Old Soja”), a prominent leader from Zadobori Clan; Comrade Ebolo Samuel, former National Director of Mobilization and former Chairman of the Clan Chairmen Forum (Western Zone), who currently serves as the spokesperson of the campaign team; Comrade Jackson Agbor of Tuomo Clan; Comrade Andaowei Okou, the immediate past Chairman of Obotebe Clan IYC; Mr. Romeo, current Secretary of Obotebe Clan; and Comrade Micah Precious, a former President of the National Union of Ijaw Students (NUIS), among several other supporters and youth leaders.
Members of the delegation collectively appealed to leaders and stakeholders across the Western Zone to extend their prayers, goodwill, and political support to the aspirant, emphasizing that his emergence would strengthen unity and effective mobilization within the council.
Appreciation for Warm Reception
At the conclusion of the visit, the campaign team expressed profound appreciation to the Western Zone leadership for the warm reception accorded them.
They also commended the prevailing spirit of unity, cooperation and peace within the zone, describing it as a positive foundation upon which the forthcoming IYC national elections can be conducted peacefully and successfully.
The delegation reaffirmed its commitment to engaging stakeholders across the Niger Delta in the coming weeks as consultations continue ahead of the decisive electoral process.
As the political momentum surrounding the IYC national elections gradually intensifies, many observers believe that the emergence of candidates with organizational experience and grassroots connections may play a critical role in shaping the future direction of the influential youth body.
A Call for Unity in the Ijaw Nation
The campaign team concluded the engagement with a message of unity and shared purpose for the Ijaw people and the broader Niger Delta.
“God bless the Ijaw Youth Council.
God bless the Ijaw Nation.
God bless the Niger Delta Region.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
The statement was issued on behalf of the campaign team by Comrade Ebolo Samuel on March 26, 2026.
Source: IYC Campaign Media Team
Global Egberi Media International
🌐 https://globalegberi.com.ng/wp
Author: Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
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