The Itsekiri nation on Sunday formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for second terms in office ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The endorsement came during a colourful reception held at the Olu of Warri Palace Ground in Warri, where traditional rulers, political leaders, party supporters, and prominent Itsekiri sons and daughters gathered to honour both leaders.
In addition to the endorsement, Governor Oborevwori was conferred with the prestigious Royal Order of Iwere (ROI), the highest honour of the Itsekiri nation, in recognition of his leadership and contributions to peace and development in Delta State.
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dr. Alex Ideh, moved the motion for the endorsement, describing both Tinubu and Oborevwori as leaders whose continuity in office would help consolidate ongoing developmental strides at the federal and state levels.
According to Ideh, the endorsement reflected the confidence of the Itsekiri people in the leadership qualities, developmental agenda, and commitment of both leaders to national and state progress.
The motion was seconded by the member representing Warri South I State Constituency, Hon. Augustine Uroye, and later adopted through a voice vote coordinated by the member representing Warri Federal Constituency, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Olu of Warri explained that the Royal Order of Iwere was created three years ago to honour distinguished Nigerians whose contributions have positively impacted humanity and society.
The monarch noted that Governor Oborevwori emerged as the first non-Itsekiri recipient of the prestigious award due to his humility, inclusive leadership style, and strong relationship with the Itsekiri people.
He added that the initiative, which initially began among politically active Itsekiris, especially members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), later evolved into a collective decision embraced by the wider Itsekiri nation.
“It gives me great pleasure to present to everyone, freshly minted, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Elder Dr. Sheriff Oborevwori, ROI,” the monarch declared.
In his welcome address, Yemi Emiko said the reception was organised to appreciate President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori for their contributions to the growth and development of the Itsekiri nation.
He also commended the governor for supporting the emergence of Chief Solomon Arenyeka, a Palace Chief, as Chairman of the APC in Delta State.
Responding, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the Itsekiri nation for the honour and endorsement extended to him and President Tinubu.
The governor, who attended the event alongside his wife, Tobore, Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, and former Governor Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, described the endorsement as sincere and unprecedented.
“I am deeply humbled by this grand reception. I cannot quantify my gratitude to the Itsekiri nation for the honour of celebrating me and Mr. President today,” he said.
Oborevwori further stated that unlike many political endorsements that are often lobbied for, the support from the Itsekiri nation was voluntary and genuine.
“I have seen where people go and lobby for endorsements. This one is organic. I celebrate your organisational savvy, tenacity of purpose, and unalloyed loyalty to the unity and progress of our beloved Delta State,” the governor added.