The leadership of the Bayelsa West Youth Congress paid a formal visit to a prominent traditional Music Icon Chief Barrister Smooth referred who also knon as “Paddle of the Niger Delta,” on Thursday, July 11, 2025. The meeting took place in the Niger Delta region and was aimed at showing respect, solidarity, and recognition for his contributions to the Ijaw nation.
Present at the courtesy visit were the Chairman of the Bayelsa West Youth Congress, along with the Spokesman of the group, Hitler Moses. Also in attendance were the Coordinator for Ekeremor Local Government, Alhaji Letugbene, and his Deputy, Senior Comrade Joseph Ateh. Accompanying the delegation was legal representative and ally to the group, Barrister Nelson Gomoromor.
During the visit, the youth leaders commended the traditional ruler for his longstanding service to the Ijaw people. They specifically praised his consistent advocacy for the welfare of the Ijaw nation and his outspoken commitment to truth and justice.
Chief Barrister Smooth as described by the youth leaders, has maintained a track record of unwavering integrity and moral leadership. His influence in the region has been regarded as significant, particularly in preserving cultural values and promoting unity among the Ijaw people.
The group expressed admiration for his qualities of leadership and referred to his reputation as being comparable to that of a clergy figure due to his devotion to peace and truth. They acknowledged his efforts in standing up for the collective interests of the Ijaw nation, particularly at a time when the region continues to face socio-political and economic challenges.
The youth leaders emphasized that the monarch’s role goes beyond ceremonial duties. They credited him with actively using his position to advocate for the rights and development of the Ijaw ethnic group within the broader Niger Delta.
The Bayelsa West Youth Congress, through their representatives, pledged their full and unwavering support to the monarch. They urged him to continue his leadership and efforts to promote the welfare of the Ijaw people.
The visit also served as a gesture of unity and collaboration between traditional institutions and youth organizations within Bayelsa West Senatorial District. By engaging directly with the traditional ruler, the Congress signaled its commitment to aligning with traditional values while also pushing forward youth engagement in regional development.
In his remarks during the visit, the Chairman of the Congress reiterated the group’s mission to support initiatives that benefit the Ijaw community. He noted that the traditional ruler’s history of speaking truthfully and advocating for justice has earned him great respect, not only within the Ijaw nation but across the broader Niger Delta region.
The Paddle of the Niger Delta responded with appreciation for the visit and pledged to continue working in the interest of the people. He encouraged the youth to remain focused, united, and committed to truth and justice in all their endeavors.
This meeting marked a significant moment of intergenerational dialogue, with the traditional ruler offering guidance to the younger leaders while also acknowledging their role in shaping the future of the Ijaw nation. The event concluded with mutual expressions of solidarity and a renewed commitment to cultural heritage, peace, and progress.
