Ijaw Leaders Back Tinubu, Oborevwori for 2027 Re-election Bids

Prominent leaders from the Ijaw nation have endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for second terms ahead of the 2027 general elections, citing ongoing development efforts and political alignment.

The endorsement was announced on Wednesday during a grand reception held in Bomadi, Delta State, where thousands of supporters gathered under the platform of Delta Ijaw Political Leaders.

The motion supporting both leaders was moved by lawmaker Julius Pondi and seconded by state legislator Kenneth Oboro, before being adopted through a voice vote overseen by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor.

Among those present at the event were Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, President of the Ijaw National Congress Benjamin Okaba, and the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, Dennis Otuaro, all of whom praised the Delta governor’s development record in Ijaw communities.

Traditional rulers also played a central role in the ceremony, conferring the title “Izonebimiewei”, meaning “the man that does good for Ijaw people”, on Oborevwori in recognition of what they described as his commitment to infrastructure and community development.

Development spending and political loyalty drive endorsement

Speaking at the event, Oborevwori said his administration had spent over ₦400 billion on projects across Ijaw communities, adding that the support he received from the ethnic group during his political journey would not be forgotten.

He described the reception as deeply personal, noting that he felt a strong connection with the Ijaw people due to their consistent backing.

According to him, the endorsement would be reciprocated through continued investment in infrastructure and increased political inclusion for the region.

“I feel highly honoured to be here among the Ijaw nation. Today feels like a homecoming,” the governor said, adding that the trust placed in his administration would be rewarded with more development projects and appointments.

The endorsement adds to a growing list of early political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections, as regional leaders and interest groups begin to signal their preferred candidates.

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While such endorsements are not legally binding, they often reflect underlying political calculations and can influence voter sentiment, especially at the grassroots level in Nigeria’s highly localised political landscape.