Obi, Dickson Celebrate Ijaw Heritage At Traditional Boat Regatta

Bayelsa State witnessed a colourful celebration of Ijaw cultural heritage on Friday as former Governor Henry Seriake Dickson and the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, joined a traditional boat regatta at Toru-Orua community in Sagbama Local Government Area.

The event formed part of activities marking Dickson’s homecoming and attracted political leaders, community stakeholders and traditional warriors.

A statement signed by Gabriel Ukuta, Coordinator of Ofurumapepe Media, said the regatta featured traditional war boats and warriors in a display of the history and cultural identity of the Ijaw people.

Dickson and Obi joined the procession along the waterways, adding a political dimension to the cultural celebration.

For the Ijaw people, the boat represents more than a means of transportation. It reflects their historical relationship with the waterways, which have shaped their livelihoods, struggles and social identity.

The regatta also highlighted values of courage, unity, resilience and ancestral pride associated with the Ijaw people.

Obi’s participation provided an opportunity to experience the traditions of the Ijaw nation. The gathering also demonstrated the cultural ties and mutual respect between the political leaders and their hosts.

Meanwhile, Dickson has pledged to work with Obi to ensure the execution of the proposed Agge Seaport project if the NDC wins the 2027 presidential election.

The former governor made the commitment during a stakeholders’ rally in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital, where he urged residents to support the party and its presidential candidate.

He said an NDC-led Federal Government would give fresh attention to the proposed seaport, which he described as important to the state’s economic prospects.

“When Peter Obi becomes President, I will work with him to see that the Agge Seaport project is executed,” Dickson said.

He also promised that the party would present its development agenda for Bayelsa when its leaders return for the official election campaigns.

“When we are back for the official campaigns, we will unveil the NDC plans for Bayelsa State,” he stated.

Dickson urged Bayelsans to vote for Obi and the NDC, expressing confidence that the party could offer an alternative political and development agenda ahead of the 2027 elections.

The proposed Agge Seaport is expected to feature prominently in the party’s engagement with voters, particularly on economic diversification and opportunities in the maritime sector.

Dickson ended his appeal with a call for national renewal, declaring: “Nigeria must be OK.”