PeeTV Media: February 2026

By Perekeme Odon

The Ijaw National Congress presidential hopeful Elder Timi Kaiser-Wilhelm Ogoriba (popularly addressed as T.K. Ogoriba), met leaders of the group’s Lagos chapter as part of a nationwide consultation ahead of its forthcoming election, pledging to reposition the body as a more inclusive and effective voice for Ijaw interests.

Elder Timi Kaiser-Wilhelm Ogoriba

The meeting, held on 26 February 2026 at the Bayelsa State Liaison Office in Lagos, brought together the executive council and members of the Lagos State chapter for what participants described as a wide-ranging and interactive session.

Ogoriba, a veteran figure in Ijaw advocacy with decades of involvement in the struggle for political and economic recognition, told members that the congress must evolve into a more responsive umbrella organisation capable of reflecting the aspirations of Ijaw communities across all zones.

He called for stronger internal cohesion and a transparent and credible leadership recruitment process, arguing that the integrity of the organisation’s electoral system would be central to restoring confidence among members. He also urged deeper engagement with young people, community institutions and professional groups, saying that broad participation was essential to strengthening the Ijaw voice within the Nigerian federation.

Comrade Tonye Harry Leonard & Elder T.K Ogoriba

Accompanying him was the Distinguished Hon. Wisdom Oniekpar Ikuli, a security expert, author and media practitioner, who is seeking the office of national publicity secretary. Ikuli, a prominent advocate of what he terms a renewed Ijaw consciousness, traced the historical trajectory of the Ijaw struggle and outlined the campaign’s vision for a more assertive and strategically organised congress. He has long argued that the Ijaw people must assume what he describes as their rightful place within Nigeria’s ethnic landscape, citing their contributions and sacrifices in the Niger Delta.

In their response, leaders of the Lagos chapter welcomed Ogoriba but reiterated the chapter’s neutrality. They said the body remained open to all aspirants committed to advancing the collective interests of the Ijaw nation.

The Lagos State chairperson, Comrade Tonye Harry Leonard, affirmed the chapter’s support for a transparent, peaceful and issue-based contest, adding that competence, integrity and vision would be critical benchmarks in assessing candidates.

(l-r) Comrade Preye Ketebu, Comrade Harry & Pst Posibi

Comrade Harry said the chapter would particularly value aspirants who demonstrate a firm grasp of the contemporary challenges confronting Ijaw communities and who are prepared to work with a broad coalition of stakeholders to promote peace, sustainable development and sociopolitical stability in the Niger Delta.

According to the INC Lagos State Chapter, Elder Ogoriba is the only candidate whose campaign visit, together with the aspiring national publicity secretary, has so meaningfully engaged them through a detailed exposition of the historic events and significant milestones that have shaped the Izon Ebe struggle for socio-economic emancipation within the Izon Nation.

INC Lagos in Solidarity With Elder T.K Ogoriba

They expressed that his presentation not only brought clarity to the historical journey of the Izon-Ebe people but also deepened their understanding of the sacrifices and achievements that have defined their collective aspirations. For this and many other reasons, they conveyed their sincere appreciation, noting that they felt both honoured by his presence and intellectually enriched by the depth of insight he shared.

The meeting ended on what participants described as a cordial note, with both sides emphasising unity, strategic foresight and sustained commitment to the Ijaw cause as the congress approaches a pivotal leadership transition.