12th of January, 2026

ATIKU STRENGTHENS FRIENDSHIP WITH THE IJAW NATION

By Anthony Onwuka, Ph.D

It was Jody Watley who, in the chorus of one of her songs titled ‘Friends’, said, ” Friends will let you down. Friends won’t be around. When you need them most. Where are your friends?” And so it is instructive that when you finally find one, do everything possible to keep him or her.

Such is a true reflection of the character of the former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar who all through his life’s sojourn has constantly oiled the wheel of his friendships found from across the length and breadth of Nigeria and the world at large, be it in the corporate world, business relationships or in politics.

So on Saturday 10 January 2026 Atiku renewed his bond of friendship between him and the people of Bayelsa State, the Ijaw nation, nay the South South region, when he paid a condolence visit to former Bayelsa State Governor, and the leader of the Ijaw Nation, Sen. Henry Seriake Dickson, his close political ally, to commiserate with him and the good people of Bayelsa State following the demise of his political son, and Deputy Governor of the State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, Ph.D.

The friendship of the two renowned politicians dates back in time to several decades ago and has remained unshakened, with both showing that friendship based on mutual understanding, respect, and trust can endure for a very long time. Thus the visit reignited his long standing affinity with the Bayelsa people and as is characteristic with the Waziri, he made eloquent solemn remarks that signified how deeply saddened he was by the unfortunate demise of his friend’s “Man Friday”. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed soul, and the fortitude of Bayelsa people and government to bear the sad loss.

An elated Dickson expressed joy at the condolence visit to him at a time he and the entire people of the State were mourning the unfortunate death of his very close political ally who rose to become the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State and in reciprocation the former governor pledged his readiness to give Atiku full support in the 2027 elections.

Dickson’s latest promise to give full backing to the former Vice President swells his support base as many individuals and groups dissatisfied with the policies and programmes of the current APC government have given their words, saying they would support any effort that would successfully oust this heartless administration that takes delight in inflicting pain on the citizens contrary to the Renewed Hope they promised the people.

As the stage is almost set for the commencement of political activities in the country, Nigerians are anxiously waiting and praying also that the former Vice President would accept to vie for the exalted office as the most exposed, experienced and capable candidate to challenge the incumbent in the race to Aso Rock.

One thing is certain: destiny can not be denied, and with his support base expanding by the day, nothing can stand in the way of victory for the former number two citizen this time around. All that he needs is your support and understanding to succeed.

Nigeria must be great again.

Chief Anthony Onwuka, PhD., writes from Abuja