Itsekiri Nation Breaks Palace Tradition, Endorses Tinubu, Oborevwori for 2027

The Itsekiri nation on Sunday made a historic political declaration ahead of the 2027 general elections by openly endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for second terms in office.

The endorsement, regarded as a major departure from longstanding palace tradition, took place at the palace of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, during a grand reception held in honour of Governor Oborevwori.

At the event, the governor was also conferred with the prestigious Royal Order of Iwere (ROI) by the revered monarch in recognition of his leadership and contributions to development in Delta State.

Speaking at the ceremony, Governor Oborevwori described the endorsement as unprecedented, noting that the palace traditionally refrains from partisan political alignment.

“I know the laws of this palace, that you don’t take sides for political reasons. But because of the love you have for me and Mr President, you did this,” the governor said.

He expressed appreciation to the Itsekiri people for what he called an “organic show of support” for both his administration and that of President Tinubu.

The governor assured the people that his administration would continue to execute projects aimed at transforming Iwereland and other parts of Delta State.

Reaffirming his inaugural promise to give Warri “a new face,” Oborevwori highlighted several infrastructural achievements of his administration, including the completion of a 21-kilometre road project with 15 bridges.

He also disclosed that rehabilitation works on failed road sections in the area had already been awarded, with completion expected within weeks ahead of commissioning.

The governor further announced the award of the Ode-Itsekiri electrification project to an indigenous contractor, explaining that the move was intended to encourage accountability and community ownership.

“I ask the Itsekiri nation to continue to support our administration and that of President Bola Tinubu. Your support and prayers will make us do well,” he added.

In his remarks, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, commended the governor’s leadership and prayed for wisdom and discernment for him to continue governing the state effectively.

The monarch also hinted that he would have gone further to confer a chieftaincy title on the governor but refrained out of respect for the presence of the Orodje of Okpe, His Majesty Orhue I.

Chairman of the planning committee, Dr. Alex Ideh, said the gathering transcended politics and symbolised recognition of purposeful leadership and visible governance.

He praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms and acknowledged appointments of prominent Itsekiri sons and daughters into strategic national positions, including agencies in the oil and gas sector.

Ideh subsequently moved the motion endorsing President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori for second terms in office, a motion that was seconded by Hon. Augustine Uroye and adopted through a voice vote by attendees.

The event also featured colourful cultural displays by the Ugbolokposo community, adding glamour to what many described as a historic political and cultural gathering in Warri Kingdom.

Among dignitaries present were former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas, traditional rulers, political leaders and government officials from across the state.