Former Bayelsa State lawmaker Wilson Ayakpo Dauyegha has declared his full support for High Chief Hon. MacDonald Igbadiwei as he seeks election as President of the Ijaw National Congress, describing the aspiration as a continuation of a long and historic struggle of the Ijaw people.
Dauyegha, popularly known as WAD, said the Ijaw struggle has never been a one-time event but a sustained journey marked by sacrifice, courage, and collective resolve. He noted that the quest for justice, development, and environmental protection in Ijaw land has evolved through different phases and requires experienced leadership to navigate the present challenges.
He stated that High Chief Hon. MacDonald Igbadiwei, Prime Minister of Gbaraun Kingdom in Bayelsa State, has lived the Ijaw struggle for most of his life and possesses the depth of experience needed to lead the apex socio-cultural body of the Ijaw people at this time.
According to Dauyegha, the campaign for Igbadiwei’s emergence as INC president has continued to gain momentum across Ijaw communities. He confirmed that Barrister Preye Tareware E. of Oporomor Kingdom has officially joined the campaign train, a move he said further strengthens the credibility and broad-based acceptance of the aspiration.
He added that the growing support from Oporomor Kingdom reflects increasing unity among Ijaw people and confidence in Igbadiwei’s leadership capacity. Dauyegha said such endorsements are critical at a time when cohesion within the Ijaw Nation is essential for progress.
Dauyegha disclosed that for over 60 percent of his life, Igbadiwei has remained actively committed to Ijaw affairs. He recalled that during his tenure as Publicity Secretary and Organizing Secretary of the Ijaw National Congress, Igbadiwei consistently prioritized the collective interest of the Ijaw people above personal comfort.
He said Igbadiwei’s decision to build on the achievements of past INC presidents demonstrates a clear understanding of leadership as a process of continuity rather than disruption. According to him, stability and progress within the INC can only be achieved by leaders who respect institutional history while working to strengthen it.
The former lawmaker also spoke extensively on the environmental degradation suffered by Ijaw communities, describing it as the product of decades of neglect and pollution by International Oil Companies operating in the Niger Delta. He stressed that the devastation of farmlands, rivers, and livelihoods did not happen by chance.
Dauyegha said addressing these long-standing injustices requires leadership that understands the historical roots of the problem and possesses the courage to confront powerful interests. He described Igbadiwei as a leader grounded in conviction and experience, with a personal understanding of the pain endured by oil-producing communities.
He further highlighted his personal relationship with Igbadiwei, noting that beyond politics, he is a neighbor, mentor, and father figure. Dauyegha said his endorsement is based on long-standing knowledge of Igbadiwei’s character, sacrifices, and commitment to the Ijaw Nation.
He stated that he could vouch without hesitation for Igbadiwei’s integrity, vision, and capacity to lead the INC at what he described as a critical moment in Ijaw history. He emphasized that leadership of the INC must be entrusted to someone who has paid his dues within the struggle.
Dauyegha called on all sons and daughters of the Ijaw Nation, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind Igbadiwei’s candidacy. He urged them to support leadership rooted in sacrifice, experience, unity, and unwavering commitment to the Ijaw cause.
He concluded by saying that the future of the Ijaw people depends on the choices made today, adding that the nation deserves leadership capable of defending its interests and advancing its collective aspirations.
