The Ijaw Publishers Forum, IPF, a body of professional media practitioners of Ijaw extraction, has appealed to Hon. Spencer Okpoye, the Commissioner representing Ijaw nationality in the Board of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, for its engagement and empowerment towards its development and growth.

The IPF made their positions known in an official document presented to the Commissioner during a courtesy visit by members of the IPF and the Delta Ijaw Comrade Community, DICC, on Tuesday, July 11, 2023 in Warri, Delta State.

Speaking on behalf of the IPF, its acting chairman, Comrade Ozobo Austin re-emphasized the roles played by Ijaw publishers in the Ijaw cause but which have not been well received by leaders of the ethnic nationality.

"Without mincing words, the IPF is the body currently shouldering the responsibility of the intellectual struggle for a better deal for Ijaws anywhere in Nigeria. Sir, it may interest you to know that the pen (nonviolence advocacy) have long replaced the violence of arms agitation.

"It is sad and unfortunate to announce to you Mr. Commissioner that despite our immerse contribution in the Ijaw cause, Ijaw media practitioners have been sidelined and abandoned unduly. We have suffered the greatest of humiliation, suffocation and intimidation from Ijaws in the course of our resolves to serve our people," Comrade Ozobo added.

Among some of the IPF demands include the engagement of Ijaw media organisations in showcasing DESOPADEC activities, forging a partnership with the Commission for publicity, sponsorship of IPF programmes for sustainability and efficiency, incorporation of Ijaw media organisations into the media fund of DESOPADEC, among others.

The professional body, which earlier congratulated the Commissioner for his well-deserved appointment, appealed to the Commissioner to use his good office to correct the low preference accorded Ijaw media practitioners.

Also speaking on behalf of the Comrade Community, Comrade Binebai Princewill, appealed to the Commissioner to see to the recognition of the comrade community, an umbrella body of all Ijaw youths in activism, for the development of the Ijaw nation while pledging their support to the Commission.

Responding, Hon. Okpoye, who was excited at the brainstorming session with the visiting bodies, commended the IPF for their positive contributions towards the Ijaw nation and re-emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the entitlements due the Ijaws, get to them.

"From your objectives I see that you’re doing wonderfully well for Ijaw Nation and I am very sure that you can represent us very well. I won’t hesitate to key into your objectives," he promised, just as he charged the body to be wary of fake news by ensuring the publishing of accurate information to the general public.

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