Appreciation Message to Our Living Heroes: Honouring the Legacy of Comrade Joseph Evah.
In every generation, there rise individuals whose lives become a beacon of hope, courage, and selfless service to their people.
Today, we pause to reflect on the sacrifices of our heroes—those who have fought, built, and spoken for the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
Some have gone to rest, their names fading into silence, their families left without recognition. Others still walk among us, their voices still echoing in the struggle for justice, equity, and peace.
One such living legend is Comrade Joseph Evah, a name that should be etched in the heart of every Ijaw man, woman, and child. He is not just a comrade; he is a movement, a symbol of resilience and sacrifice. From the creeks of the Niger Delta to the streets of Lagos and Abuja, his voice has rang out for justice, resource control, youth empowerment, and national unity.
He has stood with communities, defended the voiceless, and challenged oppressive systems with boldness and integrity.
Comrade Evah’s contributions go beyond activism. He has been a bridge between ethnic nationalities, fostering dialogue and understanding among the Ijaw, Yoruba, Hausa, and other groups.
His efforts have helped to shape national conversations around federalism, environmental justice, and the rights of marginalized peoples. He has mentored countless youths, many of whom now hold influential positions across sectors, yet he remains humble and grounded in his mission.
It is time for the Ijaw nation to honour this man with the same reverence that other ethnic groups accord their heroes. Just as the Yoruba celebrate their icons and the Hausa uphold their legends, we must rise to recognize and celebrate Comrade Joseph Evah while he is still with us.
Let us not wait until his name becomes a memory before we act. Let us build monuments of appreciation in our hearts, our institutions, and our history books.
As a leader of the Niger Delta Youth Assembly, I, Hon. Meshach Ogbona, call on all beneficiaries of today’s system—political leaders, businessmen, traditional rulers, and youth leaders—to acknowledge this great man. Let us support him, celebrate him, and learn from his example. Let his story be taught in schools, his name mentioned in council chambers, and his legacy protected for generations to come.
To our living heroes, especially Comrade Joseph Evah, we say thank you. Your sacrifices have not been in vain. Your name will live on, not just in words, but in the actions of those you have inspired.
Hon. Meshach Ogbona
Leader, Niger Delta Youth Assembly
