Youths and individuals entrusted with leadership responsibilities in the Ibrede community of Ndokwa East Local Government Area, Delta State, have been urged to serve with commitment, perseverance, and passion in pursuit of the collective interest and development of the community.
The call was made by Pa Eke Eghogho and Ma Ukpule Otobo, believed to be the oldest man and woman in Ibrede, during separate interviews with The Romanews.
The elders expressed deep concern over what they described as the “avaricious, greedy, and self-centred attitudes” of some individuals elected or appointed to serve the community, strongly condemning such conduct.
Pa Eke Eghogho paid glowing tributes to past traditional leaders of the community, notably Odior Ojale and Odiologbo Egwuterai of blessed memory, whom he said made remarkable achievements through honesty, dedication, and selfless leadership.
According to him, “Ojale and Egwuterai were leaders of uncommon purpose. They were unbiased, straightforward, and not driven by self-interest, but by a genuine desire to move the community forward.”
He added that their unity and positive mindset protected Ibrede from external forces that sought to undermine the community, noting that without such leadership, Ibrede could have been “swallowed up or imprisoned by those who targeted us.”
Pa Eke further called on what he described as the “young generational leaders” to rethink their values and priorities, stressing that individuals are ultimately remembered for their contributions to society.
He expressed optimism that with cooperation, unity of purpose, and collective resolve, current leaders could still achieve their developmental goals and transform the community.
In her remarks, Ma Ukpule Otobo emphasized the importance of wisdom gained through experience, saying, “We have seen it all. A child who is standing cannot see what an old person can see while seated.”
She recalled that Ibrede was once known for unity and speaking with one voice, adding that the absence of division and segregation earned the community goodwill and peace.
“We never lived in fear or aggression of any kind,” she said, urging younger generations to shun evil practices and the get-rich-quick mentality if they hoped to enjoy long and meaningful lives.
