IduwiniVoice Community
“BRIGHT SUNRISE INTO DARKNESS:” HON. BERRY NEGERESE MOURNS LOSS OF ELDER BROTHER, HRH IBE JONATHAN
By Favour
Bisangbene Community, Bayelsa State – July 17, 2025,
The Bisangbene Community, Iduwini Kingdom, and the entire Ijaw nation have been thrown into mourning following the passing of one of their revered traditional rulers, His Royal Highness Ibe Jonathan, Amanawei of Bisangbene Community, Iduwini Kingdom, Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
The sad news, which broke on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, has left many in shock, especially his younger brother very close ally, Hon. Berry Negerese, who shared an emotional tribute to the late monarch, describing the loss as a personal and irreplaceable tragedy in a statement shared on his Facebook handle and released to the press, Hon. Berry Negerese wrote:
“With a heavy heart and utmost sadness, I shared the profound grief that enveloped me yesterday July 16, 2025, when I lost my dependable ELDER brother, HRH Ibe Jonathan, Amanoawei of Bisangbene Community.”
He continued by expressing the devastating impacts of the loss:
“Your sudden departure has cast a shadow over my life, turning what should have been a bright sunrise into a darkness of grief.”
Reflecting on the bond they shared, Hon. Berry paid a deeply heartfelt tribute to the man who he said played multiple roles in his life:
“You were more than just a brother to me: you became my father figure, my steadfast ally in trying times, a confidant and my closest gist mate. No matter the storms I faced, you have stood tall by my side, offering undying and undeniable support and love.”
Struggling with the depth of grief, he further wrote:
“The pain of losing you today is deep like a mighty ocean, and it feels as though a part of me has been taken away. Death has indeed created a large vacuum in me.”
“Saying ‘rest in peace’ fewls so difficult right now, my dependable confidant, but i know your spirit will always remain with me. Thank you for everything, you’ll forever be in my heart, my greatest ally and father figure.”
The death of HRH Ibe Jonathan marks a great loss to Bisangbene Community, Iduwini Kingdom, and the entire Ijaw nation, where he was known as a voice of wisdom, peace, and leadership.
The funeral arrangements will be announced by the family and community in due course.
(c) IduwiniVoice News
IduwiniVoice Community
IPF Expands Leadership Base with Capt. Braboke’s Induction into College of Patrons
By Favour Bibaikefie
The (IPF) has strengthened its institutional network with the induction of respected Maritime Don, Capt. Letthemsay Braboke Inaibagha, as a patron, in a move aimed at deepening mentorship and strategic guidance within the body.
The induction took place during a high-level visit by IPF executives to Inaibagha’s residence in Ogulagha, headquarters of the Ogulagha Kingdom, where discussions centred on leadership, media responsibility, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
Led by IPF President, Ozobo Austin, the delegation said the decision to bring Inaibagha into the forum’s patron cadre was driven by the need to institutionalise experience and reinforce value-driven leadership within the Ijaw media space.
According to the forum, the new patron’s track record in enterprise, youth engagement, and community development aligns with IPF’s broader objective of shaping a responsible and impact-oriented media culture.
Ozobo noted that the induction was not merely honorary but strategic, emphasizing that individuals with proven records of mentorship and community service are critical to guiding the next generation of media professionals in the region.
He said, “We are deliberate about building a structure that allows younger professionals to tap into tested experience. His contributions over the years make him a natural fit for this role.”
The IPF leadership also acknowledged Inaibagha’s longstanding, though largely private, interventions across communities, describing his influence as one that has quietly driven positive change, particularly among youths.
Responding, Inaibagha accepted the role with a call for responsible journalism and constructive engagement in advancing the Niger Delta cause. He urged practitioners to prioritise intellect and peaceful advocacy in addressing regional challenges.
“IPF should always maintain a peaceful, yet firm disposition. Your appearance may be calm, but your pen can achieve great things,” he advised.
Observers note that the induction signals IPF’s evolving focus on consolidating leadership capacity and expanding its network of seasoned patrons, as the forum continues to position itself as a key voice in shaping narratives around development, governance, and resource equity in the Niger Delta and for the Ijaw people.
IduwiniVoice Community
Oporoza Agog as Gbaramatu Kingdom Flags Off 2026 Amaseikumor Festival with Cultural Grandeur
By Favour Bibaikefie
The people of ancient Amaseikumor. Festival has officially commenced in Gbaramatu Kingdom, ushering in a week-long celebration of spirituality, culture, and communal unity.
The annual festival, which spans seven days, is deeply rooted in the traditions of the Ijaw people. “Amaseikumor,” translated as “no evil should befall the community,” reflects the central theme of divine protection, thanksgiving, and ancestral reverence.
Activities for Day One, known as Ibolomoboere Day, were successfully held yesterday, drawing indigenes, cultural enthusiasts and tourists, and visitors from across the Niger Delta. The opening ceremonies featured traditional rites, prayers, and symbolic performances aimed at honouring ancestors and expressing gratitude to deities for bountiful harvests and communal peace.
The festival also serves as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Gbaramatu Kingdom, with displays of traditional music, dances, and age-long customs passed down through generations.
Organisers have indicated that more spiritually significant and culturally vibrant events are still ahead. Among the highlights are the anticipated Gbaraun-Egbesu Day, dedicated to the revered Egbesu deity, and the grand finale, which will feature the colourful Amaseikumor masquerade exhibition—often regarded as the climax of the festival.
Leaders of the Community noted that beyond its cultural significance, the festival reinforces unity, promotes peace, and strengthens identity among the people, while also attracting tourism and fostering cultural appreciation.
As festivities continue, expectations remain high for a successful celebration that will further project Gbaramatu Kingdom as a custodian of enduring cultural values in the Niger Delta.
By: Derick Peretengboro
The Odimodi Youth body has formally witnessed a change in leadership following the handover by the outgoing President, Comrade Laide Cyril Laide, to the newly elected President, Comrade Austin Benikurukuru.
Laide, who assumed office in January 2023 after taking over from Tarede Ebiarede, completed a two-year tenure marked by active youth engagement and organizational stewardship. The transition took place during the final Odimodi Youth Congress presided over by the outgoing Executive Council.
The congress was held on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, at Eluwe House, Odimodi, where formal documents and responsibilities were handed over to the new leadership team.
The congress was held on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, at Eluwe House, Odimodi, where formal documents and responsibilities were handed over to the new leadership team.
Sources close to the incoming President disclosed that an enlarged inauguration ceremony for the new Executive Council has been scheduled for January 10, 2026. The event is expected to bring together community leaders, youth stakeholders, and invited guests to formally usher in the new administration.
The peaceful handover has been widely described by observers as a positive signal of unity, democratic maturity, and continuity within the Odimodi youth structure.