EDUCATION: Leader Of Warri South West Legislative Arm, Rt. Hon. Samuel Ekpemupolo Pushes Bill To Teach Ijaw, Itsekiri In Schools Across LGA -

By Ebiowei Gabriel

Rt. Hon. Ekpemupolo Idukedoumene Samuel, Leader of the Legislative Arm of Warri South-West Local Government Area (LGA), has presented a landmark bill to integrate Ijaw and Itsekiri languages into the curriculum of all primary schools, both public and private across the LGA.

The initiative is aimed at preserving indigenous languages, promoting cultural identity, and securing the educational future of children in the area.

In accordance with legislative procedure, Rt. Hon. Samuel temporarily stepped down as Presiding Officer, allowing the Deputy Leader, Rt. Hon. Erewa Charles, to oversee the proceedings while the bill was formally introduced. The gesture was praised by his colleagues as a demonstration of respect for due process and legislative ethics.

Under the proposed law, schools located in Ijaw communities will teach the Ijaw language, while schools in Itsekiri communities will teach Itsekiri. This ensures that children grow up fluent not only in English but also in their ancestral languages, preserving the culture, proverbs, and traditions of the community from an early age.

Speaking on the significance of the bill, Rt. Hon. Samuel highlighted the urgent need to protect indigenous languages, noting that many children today are unable to speak or understand their ancestral tongue. He said the legislation is designed to revive pride in local languages, strengthen cultural identity, and foster peaceful coexistence between the Ijaw and Itsekiri communities.

The bill is also expected to create employment opportunities for qualified language teachers and educational resource personnel, providing both cultural and economic benefits to local communities. Rt. Hon. Samuel described the legislation as “more than a bill; it is a legacy of unity, culture, empowerment, and inclusivity” for Warri South-West.

The proposed law is now under consideration by the House, and it is widely regarded as a significant step toward safeguarding the cultural heritage and educational development of the area’s younger generation.