BOMADI/Nigeria: In a major political development ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Ijaw nation in Delta State on Wednesday formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for a second term in office, in a resounding show of unity and support.
The endorsement came as the highpoint of a grand reception organised in honour of Governor Oborevwori by the Ijaw National Congress (INC) worldwide in Bomadi, which attracted a large gathering of political leaders, traditional rulers, stakeholders, and members of the Ijaw nation from across the state and beyond.
The decision followed a motion moved by the member representing Burutu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Julius Pondi, calling for the endorsement of both leaders for re-election in 2027.
The motion was seconded by a member of the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Oboro Preyor, and subsequently put to a voice vote by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, where it received unanimous approval from the gathering.
In a symbolic highlight of the event, the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum conferred on Governor Oborevwori the traditional title of Izonebimiewei—meaning “the man that does good”—in recognition of what they described as his impactful developmental strides across Ijaw communities.
Addressing the mammoth crowd, Governor Oborevwori expressed profound gratitude for the honour and endorsement, describing it as one of the highest recognitions he has received.
He disclosed that his administration has so far invested over N400 billion in infrastructural development across Ijaw communities, covering roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities, while assuring that more projects are underway.
The governor listed key projects to include the Bomadi–Gbaregolor Road, Ohoror–Bomadi Road, Oporoza township roads, internal roads in Patani and Ogulagha, as well as the ongoing Ayakoromo Bridge, noting that the projects are aimed at improving connectivity and opening up riverine communities.
Oborevwori reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance, stressing that no ethnic nationality in Delta State would be left behind in his administration’s development agenda.
“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,” he said.
Also speaking, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, commended Oborevwori for his developmental efforts, particularly in riverine areas, noting that difficult terrain should no longer be an excuse for lack of infrastructure.
He urged the Ijaw people to remain united, emphasising that unity would enhance their political relevance and amplify their voice at all levels of governance.
In his remarks, President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, described the reception as a strategic platform to appreciate the governor’s performance and deepen collaboration between the Ijaw nation and the Delta State Government.
He acknowledged several landmark projects executed by the administration and called for increased investment in critical infrastructure, including roads, bridges, healthcare, and education in Ijaw communities.
Earlier, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said the endorsement was a reflection of the governor’s visible achievements across Ijaw areas, citing ongoing road projects and institutional developments as clear evidence of his commitment.
The event witnessed a massive turnout of political leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, and women organisations, underscoring what stakeholders described as rare unity of purpose within the Ijaw nation as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
