IJaghala Community Reaffirms Ijaw Identity, Cites Historic 2008 Vanguard Publication as Foundation of Allegiance

In a powerful reaffirmation of identity and heritage, the people of IJaghala Community historically known as Zou-ala Uba in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, have publicly reiterated their allegiance to the Ijaw ethnic nationality under the sovereign authority of the Gbaramatu Kingdom. This renewed declaration, made during a press conference on Friday, June 13, 2025, echoes a pivotal position first made public in Page 20 of the Sunday Vanguard, November 2, 2008, a publication the community described as a landmark in their cultural and ancestral journey.

Gathered in unity and purpose, the leadership and indigenes of IJaghala Community declared their unwavering loyalty to His Royal Majesty, Oboro Gbaram II (JP), Aketekpe, Agadagba, the Pere of Gbaramatu Kingdom. According to community leaders, this reaffirmation is not a change in position but a long-standing truth rooted in history, first publicly acknowledged 17 years ago.

“Our statement today is a continuation of what we boldly declared to the world on Page 20 of the Sunday Vanguard of November 2, 2008. We remain proud Ijaws, loyal to Gbaramatu Kingdom and united under the traditional leadership of our revered monarch,” a community spokesperson emphasized during the press event.

The press conference drew reactions and support from prominent Ijaw voices, including Ambassador Endurance Bekenawei Nwachukwu, Pioneer President of the Association of Gbaramatu Female Graduates and Coordinator of the CREEK Initiative. She hailed the IJaghala people for their courage, clarity, and fidelity to cultural truth.

"This is more than a political or territorial claim—it is a spiritual and cultural homecoming,” she said. “What IJaghala has done today is what they already declared in 2008. It is a message to other Ijaw communities that the time has come to reconnect with their roots boldly and unapologetically.”

Amb. Endurance Bekenawei likened the move to that of the Ikantu Community, which recently reaffirmed its own allegiance to Gbaramatu, reinforcing a growing trend of unity among historically linked Ijaw communities.

She issued a renewed call to Ijaw communities yet to publicly state their position, urging them to take inspiration from IJaghala and Ikantu:

"Let us remember we are descendants of Oweizibri. Our unity is our strength. By standing together in truth, peace, and love, we safeguard the future of our heritage.”

In a heartfelt gesture, the ambassador also recognized several women leaders from IJaghala Mrs. Grace Remere Ukunorisemofe, Mrs. Dolor Utseoritse Laju, Mrs. Ebi Jolomi, and Mrs. Mary Usangbajumi for their enduring contributions to peace and leadership at the grassroots level, especially in the Egbegha zone.

"Women are the heartbeat of every thriving community. Your role in fostering peace and progress is deeply valued. Continue to lead with grace and conviction,” she encouraged.