The Ijaw nation in Delta State on Wednesday formally declared its support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori ahead of the 2027 elections. The endorsement formed the centerpiece of a grand reception held in honour of the governor.
The event, organised by the Ijaw National Congress (INC) worldwide in Bomadi, attracted a wide array of dignitaries, including political leaders, traditional rulers, stakeholders, and Ijaw indigenes from across Delta State and beyond.
Support for the two leaders followed a motion presented by the member representing Burutu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Julius Pondi.
The motion called on the Ijaw people to endorse and support both Tinubu and Oborevwori for a second term in office.
The proposal was seconded by Hon. Oboro Preyor, a member of the Delta State House of Assembly.
It was subsequently put to a voice vote by the Speaker of the House, Rt Hon. Dennis Guwor, and received unanimous approval from the gathering.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the conferment of the traditional title “Izonebimiewei,” meaning “the man that does good,” on Governor Oborevwori by the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum.
The honour was given in recognition of what was described as his significant developmental efforts across Ijaw communities.
Speaking to the large crowd, Oborevwori expressed gratitude for the honour and the overwhelming support, describing it as one of the most meaningful recognitions he had received from his people.
He revealed that his administration has committed over N400 billion to infrastructure projects in Ijaw areas, covering roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare facilities.
He also assured residents that additional projects would be delivered in the years ahead.
The governor listed several key projects, including the Bomadi–Gbaregolor Road, Ohoror-Bomadi Road, Oporoza township roads, internal roads in Patani and Ogulagha, as well as the ongoing Ayakoromo Bridge.
He said these projects are part of deliberate efforts to improve access and connectivity in riverine communities.
Oborevwori reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance, emphasising that no ethnic group in the state would be neglected.
He also appreciated the Ijaw nation for its steadfast support during his 2023 election campaign and the legal challenges that followed.
“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 addressing the gathering, Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, commended Oborevwori’s development strides, particularly in difficult riverine terrains.
He noted that geographical challenges should no longer hinder infrastructure development.
Diri urged the Ijaw people to remain united, stressing that cohesion would boost their political influence and ensure their interests are effectively represented.
In his remarks, INC President, Professor Benjamin Okaba, described the reception as an opportunity to acknowledge the governor’s achievements and deepen cooperation between the Ijaw nation and the Delta State Government.
He praised the administration for executing key projects and appealed for increased attention to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, healthcare services, and educational facilities in Ijaw communities.
Earlier, Guwor noted that the endorsement reflected the governor’s visible impact across the region, pointing to multiple infrastructure projects and institutional developments as clear evidence of his dedication.
The event recorded a massive turnout of political figures, traditional leaders, youth groups, and women organisations, highlighting what participants described as a rare display of unity among the Ijaw people as the 2027 general elections approach.
