Itsekiri nation on Sunday publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for second terms in office during a ceremony at the palace of the Olu of Warri.
The event, held at the palace of His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, also saw Governor Oborevwori conferred with the Royal Order of Iwere in recognition of his administration’s work in the state.
Governor Oborevwori described the endorsement as a significant gesture from the traditional institution, saying it reflected confidence in both his administration and that of the president. He pledged to continue pursuing development projects in Iwereland and across Delta State.
“I am deeply humbled by this reception and the support shown to me and Mr. President,” Oborevwori said. “We remain committed to the promise that Warri will wear a new face through infrastructure and development.”
The governor cited ongoing and completed projects, including a 21-kilometre road project with 15 bridges, rehabilitation of roads in Warri, and the award of the Ode-Itsekiri electrification project to a local contractor. He said no local government area in the state had been left out of the administration’s development program.
Olu of Warri said the decision to confer the honor and host the endorsement reflected the palace’s recognition of efforts to promote peace and unity in Warri Kingdom. He offered prayers for wisdom for the governor’s continued leadership.
Delta APC Chairman Chief Solomon Arenyeka and planning committee chairman Dr. Alex Ideh said the gathering was focused on evaluating leadership based on visible impact. Ideh moved the motion for the endorsement of Tinubu and Oborevwori, which was seconded by Hon. Augustine Uroye and adopted by voice vote.
Speakers at the event also highlighted federal appointments of Itsekiri indigenes to agencies including the NCDMB and NUPRC, and called for further road infrastructure to connect riverine communities.
Dignitaries present included Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Emomotimi Guwor, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, and traditional rulers from across the state. The ceremony included cultural performances from the Ugbolokposo community.