Comrade Wazo Oyinkuro Zikurebai from Gbaramatu Clan in Delta State has emerged as the new Chairman of the Clan Chairmen Forum of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone.
Zikurebai won the position in a highly contested election held on November 22, 2024, at the IYC Western Zone annex office in Warri, Delta State.
He secured 12 votes, defeating Comr. Ernest Owutuamor from Kumbowei Clan, who garnered 9 votes.
The election, which included delegates from 24 clans across the Western Zone—comprising 17 clans from Delta State, 5 from Edo State, and 2 from Ondo State—also filled several other key positions within the forum.
Comr. Simonghan Perekeme Ernest from Okomu Clan in Edo State was elected Secretary without opposition, while the position of Spokesman was keenly contested. Comr. Tititi Ebitimi from Kabowei Clan, Comr. Okaba Godwin Dortimi from Akugbene-Mein Clan, and Comr. Asheta Terry from Ogbolubiri Clan all vied for the role. After a tie between Ebitimi and Dortimi, a coin toss decided the winner, with Ebitimi emerging victorious.
The Treasurer’s position was unopposed, with Comr. Arigidi T. from Arogbo Clan in Ondo State elected to the role.
The election was coordinated by Comr. Louis Ogori from Ogulagha Clan and Comr. Tam Pereotubo from Toumo Clan, ensuring a free and fair process. The results were subsequently announced by the IYC Western Zone executive led by Comr. Nicholas TamaraDenyefa Igarama.
Following his victory, Comr. Zikurebai expressed his gratitude to the delegates and vowed to lead the forum with a commitment to unity, progress, and addressing the pressing issues faced by the Ijaw youth in the region.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration among the 24 clans in the Western Zone to achieve common goals for the development and empowerment of the Ijaw people.
The newly elected executives will oversee the affairs of the Clan Chairmen Forum for the duration of the current term, which will conclude at the end of the tenure of the current IYC Western Zone executive led by Comr. Nicholas Igarama.
The election is seen as a crucial step toward strengthening the leadership of the IYC in the Western Zone, and the successful conclusion of the process has been met with widespread support from various clan representatives.
Support Quality Journalism in the Niger Delta Region
Join us in our mission to bring development journalism, cultural preservation, and environmental awareness to the forefront. Your contribution makes a difference in the lives of the people of the Niger Delta. Donate today and be a part of the change!
