The Ijaw National Congress (INC) worldwide on Tuesday declared its unwavering resolve to perpetuate the visionary principles championed by the late renowned activist Ebiserikumo Gbassa. His recent passing is regarded by the Congress as an immense and profound blow to the collective aspirations of the Ijaw Nation.
A statement from Chief Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha, National Publicity Secretary of the INC in Abuja, confirmed Gbassa’s demise on June 6 at the age of 68. He was widely recognized as a firebrand activist whose influence resonated across the Nigerian Delta and beyond. The INC received the news of his transition with deep sorrow, yet also with a renewed commitment to his work.
Gbassa stood as a towering figure, a passionate crusader for justice and equity, who consistently championed the cause of good governance. His steadfast belief in the total emancipation of all citizens remains a guiding light for the INC, which pledges to continue his tireless advocacy.
“Gbassa will be remembered for his pivotal roles in forming the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and the Movement For The Survival of The Izon Ethnic Nationality (MOSIEND).
“His fearlessness and determination during the OPC-Ijaw crisis in Ajegunle, Lagos State will not be quickly forgotten.”
The INC national publicity secretary also said that Gbassa when alive was a persistent critic of successive governments in Bayelsa and an advocate for good governance, human rights, and justice for the oppressed.
“He also played critical roles in several historical struggles including being one of the Ijaw Youths who confronted and resisted the Odua Peoples Congress (OPC) during the violent ethnic clashes in Ajegunle in the early 2000.
“His involvement in that resistance earned him an enduring nickname, The Great Messenger”
“The late Gbassa was also a founding member of two of Ijaw’s most influential organisations; the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) and the MOSIEND.
“These platforms have been instrumental in shaping the Ijaw struggle for self-determination, environmental justice and inclusion in Nigeria’s Federal structure,” Oyakemeagbegha added.
