Ijaw music pioneer, Izonebi Alfred breaks barriers with UK tour

By Benjamin Njoku

Izonebi Alfred, known as Jking and hailed as a “Professor” of Ijaw music for his masterful compositions and stage prowess, has shattered a long-standing barrier for Ijaw highlife artists by launching his career on a global stage in the United Kingdom.

Hailing from Ndoro, Torugbene, and Oyangbene in Bayelsa and Delta States, Alfred fled the shores of his homeland to overcome decades of limited international reach plaguing Ijaw musicians. Critics liken this “jinx” to a biblical void, cursing legends like King Dr. (h.c.) Robert Ebizimor, Field Marshall Echo Toikumo, and others who dreamed of worldwide acclaim but were thwarted by cash-strapped supporters—”wailing wallets,” as Alfred’s biographer Dr. Enewaridideke Ekanpou describes it.

Ebizimor, paired by peers like Ajasco gaining global fame abroad, prophesied that future talents would succeed. Alfred, staying humble amid roaring acclaim, has fulfilled that vision as the first in his generation to internationalise Ijaw storytelling through music. His UK journey nearly faltered amid familiar financial walls, evoking JP Clark’s “America, Their America”. But Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) intervened with mystical advice: Alfred chanted the names of Matthew Tonlagha, High Chief Kestin Pondi, and High Chief Dennis Otuaro-his “human-vowels”-seven times each. This ritual unlocked “smiling wallets,” demolishing barriers like Jericho’s walls.

Upon arrival, Alfred dazzled Ijaw communities across London, Yorkshire, Leeds, Hull, and Manchester. Last December, Hull’s Ijaws gave him a festive welcome. In Manchester, he delivered an electrifying performance of “Izon-ebe,” drawing thunderous ovations from expatriates in Liverpool, Sheffield, Portsmouth, and beyond. Like Ndoro River tides, Alfred stayed in constant motion, globalising Ijaw culture through rhythmic tales that stirred forgotten memories.