Diri’s Bold Gamble: Ijaw Unity Used To Push Tinubu, Oborevwori Second Term Agenda

By Passman Akpos

Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has commended the unity of Ijaw people in Delta State, describing it as a critical force for political relevance, development, and collective progress, as the ethnic group formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for re-election.

Diri made the remarks on Wednesday in Bomadi during a grand reception organised by the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and Delta Ijaw political leaders in honour of Oborevwori.

The Bayelsa governor stressed that unity among Ijaw people would strengthen their voice and influence in regional and national politics, urging them to sustain the momentum.

“Your unity is your strength. When you speak with one voice, you will always be heard and taken seriously,” Diri said, pledging continued support for Ijaw communities across state lines.

He praised Oborevwori’s developmental strides, particularly in riverine communities, noting that his achievements in office had dispelled long-standing claims that infrastructure development in Ijaw terrain was impossible.

“It is a lie that the terrain of Ijawland makes development impossible. Governor Sheriff has proved doubters wrong,” Diri declared, adding that the Delta governor’s performance justifies his bid for a second term.

Diri also revealed plans to explore collaboration with Delta State on a strategic bridge project aimed at linking Ijaw communities in both states, a move he said would boost economic integration and accessibility.

In his response, Oborevwori expressed deep appreciation to the Ijaw people for their unwavering support, describing the reception as a symbolic homecoming.

“I feel highly honoured. Today, I feel like an Ijaw man,” he said, acknowledging the role of Ijaw communities in his political journey and electoral success.

The Delta governor disclosed that his administration had spent over N400 billion on infrastructure and development projects in Ijaw areas, promising to sustain the pace through more appointments and projects..

“I will not take your support for granted. I will reciprocate your love with more development and inclusion,” Oborevwori assured.

Also speaking, the President of the INC, Benjamin Okaba, alongside Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, lauded the governor’s performance, describing the endorsement as a collective decision rooted in visible impact.

The event’s organising committee chairman, Funkekeme Solomon, described the gathering as a defining moment of gratitude, while former Minister of Police Affairs, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, emphasised that Oborevwori had earned a second term through performance.

The endorsement motion was formally moved by Julius Pondi and seconded by Kenneth Oboro, sealing the political backing of Delta Ijaw leaders for both Tinubu and Oborevwori.

A major highlight of the event was the conferment of the traditional title “Izon Ebimieowei of Delta State” on Governor Oborevwori, symbolising his acceptance and recognition within the Ijaw nation.

The event drew top political figures from Bayelsa and Delta States, reinforcing growing political alignment within the Niger Delta as preparations for future elections intensify.