The Itsekiri nation on Sunday declared strong political support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, endorsing both leaders for a second term ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The endorsement took place during a grand reception held at the Olu Palace Ground in Warri, where political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders gathered to honour both leaders in a colourful ceremony.
Moving the motion for the endorsement, Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Alex Ideh, said continuity in leadership was essential for consolidating development gains.
He stated: “Continuity in leadership will further consolidate our present gains. Therefore, on behalf of the entire Itsekiri ethnic nationality, I proudly move the motion for the endorsement of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for a second term in office.”
He also moved a similar motion for Governor Oborevwori, saying: “I also move for the endorsement of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, the workaholic Governor of Delta State, for a second term in office. This endorsement is a reflection of our confidence in their leadership, commitment to development, and dedication to the progress of our people.”
The motion was seconded by Hon. Augustine Uroye and later adopted through a voice vote conducted by Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi, member representing Warri Federal Constituency.
Earlier, Governor Oborevwori was conferred with the Royal Order of Iwere (ROI), the highest honour of the Itsekiri nation, in recognition of his leadership and developmental efforts.
The honour was bestowed by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, who described the governor’s recognition as a reflection of his impact on the state and the Itsekiri people.
He said the award was given in recognition of Oborevwori’s “sterling leadership, humility, inclusive governance and commitment to peace, unity and development in Delta State.”
The monarch further explained that the Royal Order of Iwere, established three years ago, was created to honour exceptional individuals whose contributions positively impact society.
“In a symbolic ceremony attended by selected dignitaries and traditional authorities, the monarch formally proclaimed: ‘It gives me great pleasure to present to everyone, freshly minted, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Dr. Sheriff Oborevwori, ROI,’” the report noted.
Responding, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the Itsekiri nation for both the honour and endorsement.
“I am deeply humbled by this grand reception. I cannot quantify my gratitude to the Itsekiri nation for the honour of celebrating me and Mr. President today,” he said.
He described the endorsement as “organic and unprecedented,” adding: “This one is organic. I celebrate your organisational savvy, tenacity of purpose, and unalloyed loyalty to the unity and progress of our beloved Delta State.”
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to development, noting key infrastructure projects across Warri and surrounding communities.
Reiterating his pledge, he said: “I said during my inaugural speech that Warri will wear a new face, and today we are keeping to our words.”