A prominent Delta-born Ijaw leader, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has appealed to the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to consider appointing an Ijaw indigene as the next Vice-Chancellor of Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba.
Chief Mulade said the appeal is anchored on concerns over the absence of Ijaw representation in the leadership of newly established state universities, despite the community’s notable contributions to their establishment and development.
According to him, no individual of Ijaw extraction has so far served as Vice-Chancellor or occupied key principal offices in any of Delta State’s new universities.
He emphasized that the Ijaw ethnic nationality has several qualified professors with proven academic integrity, administrative competence, and professional experience who are eminently suitable for the position.
The Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient, oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom and a renowned rights activist expressed confidence that appointing an Ijaw Vice-Chancellor would help correct perceived marginalisation and strengthen inclusivity within the state’s higher education system.
“Ijaw sons and daughters were part of the Management Council that facilitated the establishment of these universities and also contributed significantly to the development of Southern Delta University.
Today, the Ijaw community boasts several professors with impeccable academic and administrative credentials, including those who have served the Delta State Government in various capacities,” he stated.
Chief Mulade further called on Governor Oborevwori to use the opportunity to foster a greater sense of belonging among the Ijaw people, who, he noted, have yet to host a state university despite their substantial economic contributions to Delta State.
“The appointment of a Vice-Chancellor from Ijaw extraction would address the lingering feeling of neglect and reinforce representation and inclusivity in university leadership,” he added.
He described the appeal as a reflection of the collective voice and aspirations of the Ijaw people within Delta State’s educational and governance framework.
