BOMADI: Prominent leaders of the Ijaw nation have formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as their preferred candidates for the 2027 presidential and governorship elections.
The endorsement was announced during a grand reception held in Bomadi, headquarters of Bomadi Local Government Area, where thousands of Ijaw leaders and community members gathered in solidarity.
The motion to endorse both leaders for a second term was moved by Julius Pondi, a member of the House of Representatives, and seconded by Delta State lawmaker Kenneth Oboro.
The endorsement was subsequently adopted through a voice vote presided over by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor.
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, who attended the event, praised Oborevwori for his deliberate efforts to develop Ijaw communities in Delta State.
Other key figures present included the President of the Ijaw National Congress, Benjamin Okaba, and the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dennis Otuaro, all of whom commended the governor’s developmental strides
In recognition of his contributions to Ijaw communities, traditional rulers under the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum conferred the title “Izonebimiewei” — meaning “the man that does good for the Ijaw people” — on Governor Oborevwori.
Among the monarchs present were:
- Joseph Timiyan
- Pere Kalanama VIII
- Danladi Foubiri Owoupele
- Ekio-emi John Owei-agbe
- Peremobowei Shedrach Erebulu
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude for the honour and support, describing the reception as deeply emotional.
I feel highly honoured to be here among the Ijaw nation. Today, I feel like an Ijaw man,” he said.
The governor revealed that his administration has spent over N400 billion on infrastructure and development projects in Ijaw communities, promising to further reward the region with more political appointments and continued development initiatives.
He also acknowledged the critical role played by the Ijaw people in his political journey, noting their support during challenging periods.
The endorsement is seen as a significant boost for both Tinubu and Oborevwori ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly in the Niger Delta region, where political alliances and grassroots support remain crucial.
It also underscores the growing alignment among key regional stakeholders, as leaders seek continuity in governance and development efforts across the region.
