2027: Ijaw Nation Backs Tinubu, Oborevwori, Political Strategy or Reward for Development?

The political temperature ahead of the 2027 general elections rose significantly on Wednesday as the Ijaw nation in Delta State formally endorsed Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Sheriff Oborevwori for a second term in office.

The endorsement, delivered at a high-profile gathering in Bomadi, has sparked conversations about shifting political alliances, grassroots influence, and the growing weight of ethnic blocs in Nigeria’s electoral calculations.

A Grand Reception Turns Political
The event, organised by the Ijaw National Congress (INC), attracted a powerful mix of political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders from across the Niger Delta.

What began as a reception for Governor Oborevwori quickly evolved into a decisive political moment.
The endorsement followed a motion moved by Julius Pondi, representing Burutu Federal Constituency, and seconded by Oboro Preyor.

The motion was put to a voice vote by Emomotimi Guwor and adopted unanimously signaling what observers describe as a coordinated political stance by the Ijaw bloc.

Traditional Honour, Political Message
Beyond politics, the ceremony carried cultural significance as Oborevwori was conferred with the title Izonebimiewei (“the man that does good”) by the Delta Ijaw Traditional Rulers Forum.

The honour underscores what leaders described as the governor’s visible footprint in riverine communities; areas historically challenged by difficult terrain and limited infrastructure.

N400 Billion Claim: Development as Campaign Currency
In his address, Oborevwori revealed that his administration has invested over ₦400 billion in infrastructure across Ijaw communities covering roads, bridges, schools, and healthcare.

Key projects highlighted include:
Bomadi–Gbaregolor Road
Ohoror–Bomadi Road
Oporoza township roads
Patani and Ogulagha internal roads
Ongoing Ayakoromo Bridge
These projects, he said, are part of a broader effort to unlock riverine economies and improve connectivity.

Unity, Influence, and 2027 Calculations
Also lending weight to the event was Douye Diri, who emphasized that unity among the Ijaw people would strengthen their political relevance nationally.
Meanwhile, INC President Benjamin Okaba described the endorsement as both appreciation and strategy—aimed at deepening collaboration with the Delta State Government while pushing for more infrastructure.

What This Means for 2027
Political analysts see the endorsement as more than ceremonial. It reflects:
Ethnic bloc consolidation ahead of national elections
Performance-based political bargaining
Early alignment with federal power structures.
With a massive turnout of youths, women groups, and traditional institutions, the event signals what stakeholders called a “rare unity of purpose” within the Ijaw nation.

The Bigger Question
Is this endorsement a reward for performance or a calculated move to secure political leverage ahead of 2027?
As Nigeria inches closer to another election cycle, one thing is clear: the Ijaw nation is positioning itself as a decisive force in the evolving power equation.