Ijaw Youth Council - IYC Worldwide

31/01/2026

he President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has vehemently condemned the circumstances surrounding the tragic death of Patrick Peresuodei, an Ijaw youth.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tari Agai, Lokpobiri, unequivocally stated that no individual has the right to take the life of another, and emphasised the need for a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter.

"We call on the Bayelsa State Government and the Commissioner of Police to forthwith conduct a credible and transparent investigation, and bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice, ensuring they face the full weight of the law," the statement read.

27/01/2026

The IYC delegation expressed profound sympathy to Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, acknowledging his close working relationship and shared vision with the late Deputy Governor in advancing the interests of the people. The council prayed for God’s comfort, strength, and grace for the senator, the government, and the people of Bayelsa State during this moment of deep grief and mourning.

Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr., while speaking on behalf of the IYC Worldwide, described the late Deputy Governor as a dedicated servant of the people whose commitment to good governance, peace, and development left an indelible mark on Bayelsa State.

15/01/2026

The Revered President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the Ijaw Nation as he formally begins the countdown to the final days of his tenure.

The Revered President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the Ijaw Nation as he formally begins the countdown to the final days of his tenure.

01/10/2025

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide proudly announces the successful conduct of the long-awaited Lagos Chapter election, held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Navy Barracks, Mobile Road, Apapa, Lagos State.

This historic exercise, which had been postponed due to constitutional challenges, was made possible following the recent constitutional amendment convention at Ijaw House, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Its successful conclusion marks the beginning of a new era for the IYC Lagos Chapter.

In his address, President Sir. Jonathan Lokpobiri commended the Lagos Chapter Electoral Committee, chaired by Comrade Oyinbrakemi Gboloben, for conducting a credible, free, and fair election.

23/09/2025

The President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has charged young people not to allow their backgrounds or circumstances to limit their potential. Speaking while addressing a group of youths who paid him a courtesy visit earlier today, he emphasized that “it isn’t where you came from, it’s where you’re going that counts.”

Sir Lokpobiri noted that many young people often feel constrained by their family struggles, communities, or environments. However, he urged them to look beyond their origins and focus on the future they aspire to build, reminding them that every great leader and innovator began with humble beginnings...

Sir Lokpobiri noted that many young people often feel constrained by their family struggles, communities, or environments.

23/09/2025

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide expresses deep shock and sadness over the brutal murder of 42-year-old Richard Ekpebu, an Ijaw youth whose life was senselessly cut short. We condemn this heinous act in the strongest possible terms.

According to the Nigerian Police Force, Mr. George Idumangi has been alleged as the perpetrator of this crime. While acknowledging that Mr. Idumangi had previously served in some committee capacities under our immediate past zonal leadership, we wish to categorically state that he holds no position in our current leadership structure.

The IYC is a reputable organization known for its peaceful advocacy against the oppression of the Ijaw people.

22/09/2025

The President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has called on leaders, elders, and the vibrant youth of the Ijaw Nation to embrace a deeper understanding of loyalty, integrity, and unity in leadership and community life.

In his address, the President emphasized that true loyalty is not measured by public gestures or words of praise, but by actions taken when no one is watching. “It’s not about who is real to your face. It’s about who stays real behind your back,” he stated, stressing that the strength of character is revealed in unseen moments when leaders or colleagues are absent.

He highlighted that while many may appear supportive in public gatherings, the real test lies in how individuals act in private. “True friends and comrades are not only with you when the lights are on, but also when darkness surrounds you.

16/09/2025

Press Release

The President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, has called on Niger Delta leaders and institutions to prioritize youth inclusion and grassroots participation in shaping the region’s future. Speaking at the Capacity Building Program for Niger Delta Stakeholders on Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) and Inclusive Peace for Sustainable Development, organized by the NDDC Department of Dispute and Conflict Resolution (DCR), he insisted that without giving young people and community leaders a seat at the table, peace will remain fragile.

Sir Lokpobiri made it clear that real solutions must come from those who live with the daily challenges of underdevelopment, marginalization, and conflict. He stated that when communities are truly heard, resolutions become not only practical but lasting, building trust and reducing tensions across the Niger Delta.

He reminded participants of the Ijaw Youth Council’s long-standing role as a voice for justice, equity, and peace in the region. From mediating conflicts to holding institutions accountable, the IYC has consistently fought to protect the rights of the Niger Delta people while promoting peace in Nigeria as a whole.

The IYC President stressed that young people remain central to any sustainable peace process, as they represent the energy, innovation, and resilience of the region. “If we fail to carry the youths along,” he noted, “we fail to secure the future of the Niger Delta.”

He also commended the NDDC for organizing the program, calling it a step in the right direction. However, he challenged the Commission and other stakeholders to go beyond dialogue and ensure that resolutions translate into visible action and development on the ground.

In his closing message, Sir Lokpobiri reaffirmed the IYC’s dedication to building a just and peaceful Niger Delta, urging all stakeholders to embrace unity, inclusion, and accountability. “Our generation has the duty to demand justice, defend our future, and build peace not just for ourselves but for the generations to come,” he concluded.

10/09/2025

Press Release
Date: September 10, 2025

Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Constitutes Lagos Chapter Electoral Committee

Committee to oversee forthcoming Lagos Chapter elections scheduled for September 27, 2025

The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide is pleased to formally announce the constitution of the Chapter Electoral Committee (CECO) to oversee the forthcoming Lagos Chapter elections.

The nominees who constitute the CECO emerged from the recently concluded Lagos Chapter Congress, reflecting the collective will of members in accordance with the IYC Constitution and guiding principles, as mandated during the last National Convention at Ijaw House, Yenagoa.

In the spirit of unity, the IYC President calls on all members to embrace peace, brotherhood, and sportsmanship throughout the electoral process.

Committee Composition

Chairman

Mr. Gbologha Oyinbrakemi

Members

Mr. Ebifa Azibimou

Mr. Goodluck Binafini

Ms. Betty Jack

Mr. Kelvin David Elijah

Mr. Kasikoro Emontongha

Mr. Foloki Ebiduba

Election Details

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025

Venue: Navy Barracks, Ajegunle, Lagos

All members of the Ijaw Youth Council are hereby urged to take note of this important date and venue, and to participate actively in the democratic process.

Signed,
Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr
President, Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide

Media Contact

Office of the President
Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide
📧 Email: [email protected]

28/08/2025

22/08/2025

The President of Ijaw Youth Council, (IYC) Worldwide, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, extends warm birthday wishes to one of the outstanding founding fathers of the organization, Elder TK Ogoriba, on the occassion of his birthday today.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tari Agai, Jonathan Lokpobiri commends Ogoriba's sacrifices from the formation stage of the IYC through its turbulent stage, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping the council's vision.

The President pledges to honour the founding father's efforts, keeping the IYC flag flying high while staying true to its founding principles.

He prays for Elder TK Ogoriba's continued good health and longevity, while wishing him a jolly happy birthday.