The President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Dr. Doubra Collins Okotete, has paid glowing tribute to the late Ijaw music legend, King Robert Ebizimor, describing him as one of the greatest cultural ambassadors of the Ijaw Nation.
In a statement marking the annual remembrance anniversary of the revered musician, Dr. Okotete praised Ebizimor’s lifelong commitment to preserving and promoting the history, philosophy, identity and cultural heritage of the Izon people through his music.
He said the late Numupere I of Izonland left behind an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations of Ijaw people, noting that his songs remain a rich source of wisdom, cultural values, moral instruction and social consciousness.
The IYC President called on Ijaw sons and daughters, traditional rulers, political leaders, corporate organisations and other stakeholders to immortalise the music icon by establishing a King Robert Ebizimor Museum and Cultural Heritage Centre.
According to him, the proposed museum would preserve the late musician’s philosophical works, musical archives, manuscripts, cultural artefacts and other invaluable contributions to the development of Ijaw culture.
Dr. Okotete said the initiative would not only safeguard Ebizimor’s legacy but also promote cultural education, tourism and economic development within the Niger Delta.
Drawing comparisons with the enduring legacy of late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, he pointed to the success of the New Afrika Shrine and the annual Felabration festival as examples of how cultural icons can be preserved and transformed into globally recognised institutions.
He argued that King Robert Ebizimor deserves similar recognition, stressing that future generations should have the opportunity to study and appreciate the philosophical depth and cultural messages embedded in his music.
“As custodians of the Izon heritage, we have a collective responsibility to preserve the legacy of King Robert Ebizimor beyond annual remembrance ceremonies. The establishment of a museum and the institutionalisation of a world-class cultural festival in his honour will ensure that his teachings, values and contributions remain alive for generations yet unborn,” he said.
The IYC President further appealed to cultural organisations, development partners, government agencies and private investors to support initiatives aimed at preserving the late music legend’s legacy and projecting it to international standards.
He also urged Ijaw people worldwide to remain committed to promoting their rich cultural heritage while ensuring that the remarkable contributions of King Robert Ebizimor continue to occupy a prominent place in the history and identity of the Ijaw Nation.
