The Ijaw nation in Delta State on Wednesday formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for re-election in 2027, in a strong demonstration of political unity at a grand reception held in Bomadi in honour of the governor.
The event, organised by the Ijaw National Congress (INC), attracted top political figures, traditional rulers, and stakeholders from across Delta State and beyond. The endorsement followed a motion moved by Hon. Julius Pondi and seconded by Hon. Oboro Preyor, which was put to a voice vote by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, and unanimously adopted.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of the traditional title Izonebimiewei (the man who does good) on Governor Oborevwori by the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum, in recognition of his administration’s developmental strides in Ijaw communities.
In his remarks, Oborevwori expressed deep appreciation for the honour, describing it as one of the highest recognitions from his people. He revealed that his administration has committed over ₦400 billion to infrastructure development in Ijaw areas, including roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities. Key projects cited include the Bomadi–Gbaregolor Road, Ohoror-Bomadi Road, Oporoza township roads, internal roads in Patani and Ogulagha, and the ongoing Ayakoromo Bridge.
Reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance, the governor assured that no ethnic group in the state would be left behind, while also appreciating the Ijaw nation for its steadfast support during the 2023 elections and subsequent legal processes. “I remain grateful for the unwavering support of the Ijaw people, which strengthened me through challenging times. This endorsement will not be taken for granted,” he said.
Also speaking, Douye Diri commended the governor’s infrastructural drive in riverine communities, stressing that terrain should no longer be seen as a barrier to development. He urged the Ijaw people to remain united to enhance their political relevance.
In his address, INC President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, described the reception as both a celebration of performance and a platform to deepen collaboration between the Ijaw nation and the Delta State Government. He acknowledged key projects delivered by the administration and called for increased investment in critical infrastructure.
Earlier, Speaker Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor noted that the endorsement reflected the governor’s visible achievements across Ijaw communities, citing multiple road projects and institutional developments.
The well-attended event drew political leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups, and women organisations, underscoring what stakeholders described as a rare unity of purpose within the Ijaw nation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
