The Ijaw Nation at a Crossroads: Who will lead the Frontline? With voices united but leadership absent, the Ijaw nation risks becoming a home without a father

By Engr. Yeigagha Henry, JP

The Ijaw nation of the Niger Delta is at a historic juncture. A people once defined by resilience, collective action, and intellectual and cultural leadership now face a vacuum at the very heart of their struggle.

Gone are the stalwarts: Harold Dappa-Biriye, Isaac Adaka Boro, and Edwin Clark whose leadership anchored generations of Ijaws. Their absence is felt deeply.

Today, the Ijaw nation has the strength, the resources, and the voices, but these alone are insufficient to consolidate unity and drive transformation.

THE LEADERSHIP VACUUM

The Ijaw nation is unique in Nigeria: it is populous, resource-rich, and historically vocal, yet there is no universally recognised figure to lead the frontline. While structures such as the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) exist, crises and divisions have emerged because no single figure has assumed the moral and political mantle.

In contrast, the Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa ethnic groups each have anchor points; leaders who unify and articulate the collective agenda. The Ijaw nation must confront a pressing question: who will be the anchor point for today and tomorrow?

JONATHAN: THE NATURAL ANCHOR

Among contemporary leaders, Goodluck Jonathan stands out as the most widely recognised figure capable of filling this role. He possesses national experience at the highest level; deep understanding of Niger Delta politics; and credibility with the Ijaw people. Yet, the question remains: will Jonathan accept the weight of responsibility?

To lead the Ijaw nation, one must be willing to stand above factionalism, above the pressures of party politics, and above personal comfort. The challenge is not merely holding office; it is embodying the vision, courage, and strategic foresight of Dappa-Biriye, Boro, and Clark; a mantle Jonathan is uniquely positioned to assume.

THE CALL FOR UNITY

Leadership alone is insufficient. The Ijaw nation must converge across all fronts: political leaders such as Jonathan, Seriake Dickson, Douye Diri, and Fubara; activists and thought leaders such as Ann-Kio Briggs, Joseph Evah, Oweila kemefa, and Barr. Smooth; and security and militia leaders such as Tompolo, Asari Dokubo, Ateke Tom, Boy Loaf, and others.

This convergence should aim to restructure Ijaw governance and advocacy mechanisms to ensure coherence; forge consensus on a single, trusted anchor point around whom the nation can rally; and strengthen the Ijaw nation as a political and socio-economic force, not just a symbolic entity.

Without such a process, the Ijaw nation risks becoming a home without a father; a people with voice but without coordinated direction.

THE VITAL ROLE OF VOICES AND CULTURE

It is essential to acknowledge that the Ijaw nation’s vocal voices are still active and influential: Ann-Kio Briggs, Joseph Evah, Owei Lakemefa; champions of advocacy, accountability, and public conscience. Barr. Smooth; using music and cultural engagement to unite and inspire communities.

These voices preserve the ideals of the struggle and must be integrated into the leadership architecture, ensuring that decisions remain grounded in the people’s aspirations rather than political expediency.

A TIME FOR ACTION

The time for fragmentation is over. The Ijaw nation must act with urgency to: recognise and empower a central leadership anchor: foster collaboration among political, cultural, and grassroots actors. Protect the nation’s resources and convert them into sustainable development. Ensure that the next generation inherits a unified, purposeful, and self-determined Ijaw nation

Leadership is not just about holding power. It is about being the focal point of trust, guidance, and strategy; a role the Ijaw nation cannot afford to leave vacant.

CONCLUSION: THE IJAW NATION MUST DECIDE

The Ijaw nation stands at a crossroads. With its voices, resources, and collective strength, it has all it needs to chart a bold future.

Yet, without a trusted frontline leader, without strategic unity, the nation risks internal divisions that could undo decades of struggle and achievement. It is time for Jonathan and other key leaders, alongside civil society, activists, cultural icons, and security figures, to converge. Together, they must restructure, consolidate, and lead the Ijaw nation into a future worthy of its legacy.

The Ijaw people have fought for recognition. Now, they must secure leadership; and with it, the direction that will finally convert decades of struggle into lasting development.