Human rights activist and founding member of the Movement for the Survival of the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality of the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), Elder Timi Kaiser-Wilhelm Ogoriba, has reaffirmed his commitment to the defence of environmental and human rights of the Niger Delta people, particularly the Ijaw nation.
Ogoriba, who is also the Vice-Chairman of the Bayelsa State Founding Fathers Forum, made the pledge at the Ijaw National Congress headquarters, popularly known as Ijaw House, in Yenagoa, shortly after picking his interest form to contest the office of President in the 2026 National Executive Council elections of the body.
The Odi-born activist described the Ijaw National Congress (INC) as a foremost pan-Ijaw umbrella organisation and the envy of many ethnic nationalities in Nigeria. He recalled that he played pivotal roles during the formative years of both the INC and its youth wing, the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC).
Expressing confidence in the activities and future of the organisation, Ogoriba said he would work closely with all relevant stakeholders to reposition the INC for greater achievements if elected President in March 2026.
“I am still ready to go into the trenches for the Ijaw nation. Those who know me will recall that I have gone into the trenches several times because of my love for the Ijaw people,” he said.
According to him, the Ijaw nation has grown to become a reference point among ethnic nationalities in Nigeria due to its resilience, unity, and collective struggle.
“Today, as an ethnic group, we are the envy of many others because we have what it takes. The INC has become a pride to the Ijaw people and even to those who were not part of its early struggles. I am not deterred by propaganda against my candidacy. I am determined to win and continue to serve the Ijaw nation,” he stated.
Ogoriba further recalled his involvement in the historic struggle that led to the formation of the INC in 1991 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, stressing that his leadership, if elected, would be inclusive.
“The INC under my leadership will not be a ‘T. K. Ogoriba project’ alone. I will need the collective support of all sons and daughters of Ijaw land to lead us effectively,” he added.
Speaking on broader national issues, the presidential aspirant reiterated his stance on resource control and true federalism, emphasizing the need for fairness and equity for the Niger Delta region.
He also called for stronger collaboration between the INC and other ethnic nationalities in the Niger Delta, noting that mutual respect, understanding, and strategic synergy remain critical to accelerating sustainable development in the region.