The political landscape of the Itsekiri ethnic group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) has solidified around President Bola Tinubu and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as their chosen candidates for the 2027 general elections. This unified stance emerged from a pivotal “unity meeting” held in Warri, Delta State, bringing together prominent Itsekiri political figures within the APC. The meeting, described as a joyous occasion, marked a significant turning point in the political cohesion of the Itsekiri people, signaling a newfound sense of unity under a shared political banner. The convener of the meeting, Chief Ayirimi Emami, emphasized the importance of this gathering, noting that it was the first time in over a decade that the Itsekiri political leaders within the APC had come together in such a united fashion.
This newfound unity holds profound implications for the 2027 elections. Chief Emami expressed confidence that the unified front presented by the Itsekiri APC leaders would pave the way for a landslide victory for President Tinubu and the APC in the Warri Federal Constituency. He pledged unwavering support for both President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, highlighting the significance of their combined leadership in fostering unity and progress within the Itsekiri community. This endorsement signifies a strategic move by the Itsekiri APC leaders to consolidate their political influence and ensure a strong showing in the upcoming elections. The decision to back both Tinubu and Oborevwori demonstrates a commitment to aligning with the dominant political forces at both the national and state levels.
The endorsement of President Tinubu underscores the Itsekiri APC’s belief in his leadership and the potential of his “Renewed Hope” agenda to bring positive change to Nigeria. The group acknowledged the President’s performance in the past two years, emphasizing that a second term would provide him with the necessary time to fully implement his programs and deliver on his promises to the Nigerian people. This support reflects the Itsekiri APC’s confidence in Tinubu’s ability to address the nation’s challenges and guide it towards a brighter future. The emphasis on the “Renewed Hope” agenda suggests that the Itsekiri people, like many Nigerians, are looking for tangible improvements in their lives and believe that Tinubu is the right leader to deliver on those expectations.
Similarly, the endorsement of Governor Oborevwori highlights his perceived effectiveness in transforming Delta State. The group lauded his performance, describing Delta State as a “construction site” under his leadership. This positive assessment of Oborevwori’s governance underscores the Itsekiri APC’s recognition of his efforts to develop the state and improve the lives of its citizens. The characterization of Delta State as a “construction site” suggests a visible and tangible impact of Oborevwori’s policies, likely resonating with the local population who can witness the ongoing development projects. This endorsement reinforces the Itsekiri APC’s commitment to supporting leaders who demonstrate a commitment to progress and development within their communities.
The unity meeting brought together a diverse array of influential Itsekiri APC leaders from the Warri Federal Constituency, encompassing Warri South, Warri South-West, and Warri North Local Government Areas. Among the prominent attendees were the APC Senatorial chairman, former Minister Dr. Roland Oritsejafor; the APC leader in the Warri Federal Constituency, Chief Ayirimi Emami; and the lawmaker representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Thomas Ereyitomi. The presence of such high-profile figures underscores the significance of the meeting and demonstrates the widespread support for the endorsements within the Itsekiri APC. The gathering of these key political players speaks volumes about the seriousness with which the Itsekiri APC is approaching the 2027 elections.
The formal endorsement of President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori was a collective decision, reflecting the unified voice of the Itsekiri APC leaders. Hon. Daniel Omoyone Mayuku moved the motion for endorsement, which was seconded by Hon. Oritsetimeyin Orugbo. The motion received unanimous support from all the political leaders present, signifying a clear and unwavering commitment to backing these candidates in the 2027 elections. The lack of dissenting voices highlights the strong consensus within the Itsekiri APC regarding the chosen candidates. This united front projects an image of strength and determination, sending a clear message to other political actors in the region. The unanimous endorsement reinforces the narrative of a united Itsekiri APC, poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming elections.
