Ijaw in Delta State yesterday endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for re-election in 2027. At an event in Bomadi hosted by the Ijaw National Congress (worldwide), prominent political leaders, traditional rulers and stakeholders agreed to support the duo.
The endorsement followed a motion moved by the representative of Burutu in the House of Representatives Julius Pondi that Tinubu and Oborevwori be endorsed and supported by the Ijaw.
The ceremony also featured the conferment of the traditional title of Izonebimiewei (the man that does good) on Oborevwori by the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum in recognition of his outstanding developmental strides in the Ijaw communities. The governor expressed appreciation for the honour and the overwhelming show of support, describing it as one of the highest recognitions he had received from his people.
He noted that his administration had so far expended over N400 billion on infrastructure developments in the Ijaw communities, spanning roads, bridges, schools and healthcare facilities, and assured that more projects would be delivered in the coming years.
The governor highlighted key projects in the area to include the Bomadi–Gbaregolor Road, the Ohoror-Bomadi road, Oporoza township roads, internal roads in Patani and Ogulagha, and the ongoing Ayakoromo Bridge, describing them as part of deliberate efforts to open up riverine areas and improve connectivity.
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that no ethnic nationality in the state would be left behind.
He also commended the Ijaw nation for its sustained support during his 2023 campaigns, including the legal battles that followed the 2023 governorship election. He said: “I remain grateful for the unwavering support of the Ijaw people, which strengthened me through challenging times.
This endorsement is deeply appreciated and will not be taken for granted.” Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri praised Oborevwori’s developmental efforts, particularly in riverine communities, noting that the terrain should no longer be seen as a barrier to infrastructure.
He urged the people to remain united, stressing that unity of purpose would enhance their political relevance and ensure their voices are heard at all levels of governance.
The Ijaw National Congress (INC) President, Benjamin Okaba, described the reception as a strategic platform to appreciate the governor’s performance and strengthen collaboration between the Ijaw nation and the Delta State Government.
He acknowledged several landmark projects executed by the administration and called for the prioritisation of additional infrastructure, including roads, bridges, healthcare facilities and educational institutions in Ijaw areas.
