Diri Lauds Delta Ijaw Unity As Ethnic Group Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori’s Re-election
Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has commended the unity of the Ijaw people in Delta State, describing it as a critical factor for the ethnic group’s progress and development.
Diri made the remarks on Wednesday at Bomadi in Bomadi Local Government Area during a grand reception held in honour of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori. The event was organised by Delta Ijaw political leaders.
Speaking at the gathering, the Bayelsa governor noted that a united front would strengthen the voice of the Ijaw people and enhance their influence in the state.
He also praised Oborevwori’s performance in office, particularly his administration’s impact on Ijaw communities, stating that the governor’s achievements in his first term justified calls for his re-election.
“Governor Sheriff has done so well for the Ijaw people in Delta, and the testimonies are clear. By your works, you have been endorsed for a second tenure,” Diri said.
He dismissed claims that the terrain of Ijawland makes development difficult, insisting that Oborevwori had disproved such assertions through ongoing infrastructure projects.
Diri further emphasised the need for leaders in the Niger Delta to prioritise service over personal interests, revealing plans to explore collaboration with the Delta State Government on a proposed bridge project aimed at linking Ijaw communities across both states.
In his response, Oborevwori expressed appreciation to the Ijaw people for the honour, describing the reception as a homecoming.
“I feel highly honoured to be here among the Ijaw nation. The atmosphere and reception feel like homecoming. Today, I feel like an Ijaw man,” he said.
The Delta governor acknowledged the support of the Ijaw people throughout his political journey, noting that their backing played a significant role in his emergence as governor.
He disclosed that his administration had committed over ₦400 billion to the development of Ijaw communities and pledged to sustain investments in infrastructure and inclusive governance.
“I thank the Ijaw people for the endorsement of myself and Mr President. I do not take it for granted and will reciprocate the love through appointments and more development,” Oborevwori added.
Earlier, Chairman of the Central Organising Committee, Funkekeme Solomon, described the event as a moment of appreciation for the governor’s contributions to the development of Ijaw areas.
Similarly, Chairman of the occasion and former Minister of Police Affairs, Alaowei Broderick Bozimo, commended Oborevwori’s performance, stating that he deserved a second term in office.
In separate remarks, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor, and President of the Ijaw National Congress, Benjamin Okaba, affirmed that the governor had delivered on his mandate and deserved continued support.
They also reiterated the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori for a second term.
The endorsement was formally moved by a member of the House of Representatives, Julius Pondi, and seconded by Delta State lawmaker, Kenneth Oboro, before being adopted through a voice vote.
A highlight of the event was the conferment of the traditional title “Izon Ebimieowei of Delta State” on Governor Oborevwori.
