• Ijaw historian says Ernest Ikoli mentored Awolowo in journalism
• Calls Ikoli a pioneer who shaped early Nigerian media
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• Raises concerns over Niger Delta development and Warri ownership
A prominent Ijaw leader and historian, Prince Collins Eselemo, has said that the foundation of Nigerian journalism can be traced to Ernest Ikoli, an illustrious Ijaw son whom he described as a mentor to Obafemi Awolowo and other early media pioneers.
Eselemo made the statement during the second inauguration of the National Executive Council of the Ijaw Publishers’ Forum held in Warri, Delta State, where he highlighted Ikoli’s contributions to the development of journalism in Nigeria.
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According to him, Ikoli played a major role in shaping the early media landscape and his influence remains a source of pride for the Ijaw people.
He said the Ijaw nation possesses a strong intellectual heritage and commended members of the Ijaw Publishers’ Forum for promoting the image of the ethnic group through responsible journalism.
Eselemo urged media practitioners to uphold the principles of truth, fairness and justice in their reportage.
The historian also criticised the Federal Government’s handling of Niger Delta issues, stating that the Presidential Amnesty Programme has failed to deliver sustainable development, adding that the original framework of the programme has not been fully implemented.
He further insisted that the Ijaw people are the indigenous owners of Warri and called for recognition of what he described as their historical rights in the area.