Oborevwori Failing Delta Ijaw Media Practitioners – IPF
The Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF), the apex media body representing Ijaw media practitioners, publishers, and journalists, has expressed dissatisfaction with what it described as the alleged neglect of its members by the Delta State Government under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
In a statement issued on behalf of the forum, the President of IPF, Comrade Ozobo Austin, lamented Despite the forum’s status as one of the largest indigenous media organizations, hosting the headquarters in Delta State, its members have not benefited from government-sponsored empowerment programmes, professional training opportunities, capacity-building initiatives, or other forms of support extended to media practitioners within the state.
According to Ozobo, the situation has left many Ijaw media practitioners feeling marginalized and excluded from opportunities that could enhance their professional growth and contributions to the development of Delta State.
The forum noted that media practitioners play a critical role in promoting government policies, fostering public awareness, and strengthening democratic governance. It therefore expressed concern that the state government has allegedly failed to engage or support members of the forum despite their contributions to the media landscape and socio-political development of the state.
IPF further alleged that while other media groups and practitioners are reportedly benefiting from various forms of government assistance, Ijaw media practitioners have continued to be sidelined. The forum claimed that this perceived imbalance has created concerns among its members regarding inclusiveness and equitable treatment across the various ethnic nationalities in the state.
“The Ijaw Publishers Forum remains one of the most organized indigenous media bodies in Delta State, yet our members have not received the encouragement, training, empowerment, or support necessary to strengthen their professional capacities,” the statement said.
The forum also called on Governor Oborevwori and relevant government officials, including those overseeing information and communication affairs, to review their engagement and with Ijaw media practitioners and ensure that all stakeholders are carried along in government programmes.
While acknowledging some of the developmental strides recorded by the Oborevwori administration, the forum maintained that greater attention should be given to media practitioners from the Ijaws in the state to promote inclusiveness, fairness, and unity among the various ethnic groups in the state.
The group warned that continued neglect of its members could compel it to explore legitimate democratic avenues to press home its demands and seek redress. It urged the governor to take proactive steps to address the concerns raised and foster a more cordial relationship with Ijaw media professionals.
The IPF reaffirmed its commitment to promoting responsible journalism, media development, and advancement of good governance across Delta State and the Niger Delta region.
