The Ijaw Publishers Forum, IPF, a professional body of Ijaws in the media profession, has sympathised with renowned Ijaw musician, Chief Barrister Smooth, during a condolence visit to his SmoothVille Studios at Effurun, Delta State, in respect of the recent tragic demise that involved some band members.
Leading the IPF members on the official visit, Monday, July 17, 2023, to the Born Singer and the Paddle of Niger Delta, as Chief Smooth is popularly called, are the acting chairman, Comrade Ozobo Austin (publisher of Congress Newspaper) and the acting secretary, Comrade Tare Magbei (publisher of Daily Report Nigeria).
Other members in attendance include Mr. Abai Francis (PENGlobal), Mr. Onyinbi Onduku (Niger Delta Mirror), Mr. Mingo Friday (EgbemaVoice), Comr. Anthony Demebide (Ultimate Report Nigeria), Comr. Kagbala (Focal Point Report), and Comr. Tamaraupreye Ekpegha (South South Daily).
Speaking on behalf of the professional body, Comrade Ozobo said that the tragedy that befell the highlife maestro is one that touched every Ijaw son and daughter, noting that there is not anyone who weren’t shocked by the tragic incident.
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He however charged the Born Singer to be strong and that he should cry no more as the Ijaw Nation including the IPF is solidly behind him in this trying time, particularly as the media had been playing its part by publishing the events and visits as part of their contributions.
The IPF acting chairman also hailed the Paddle of Niger Delta for the roles he played in changing the narratives of the Niger Delta region through his songs which are sources of inspiration to many.
Other highlights of the visit include the entertainment of IPF members and a group photograph session with Barr. Smooth.
It would be recalled that six band members of the Ijaw highlife musician including the Queen of Highlife in the Niger Delta, Ikesima Brown, died in a fatal car accident along the Abuja-Lokoja Highway on Sunday (June 11, 2023).
