Ijaws in Delta APC Demand Key Roles Ahead of 2027

Leaders of the Ijaw ethnic group in the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State have vowed to take a more prominent role in the party ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that they will no longer accept being sidelined. The declaration came from Elder Godsday Orubebe, a former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, during a key stakeholders’ meeting held on Monday in Obobagbene, Burutu Local Government Area.

Speaking at the meeting, Orubebe made it clear that the Ijaw people will actively seek to secure their fair share of political power within the party. “We will no longer play second fiddle. Ijaws must demand what is rightfully ours,” he stated, urging unity among the community and calling for the Ijaw people to speak with one voice.

The meeting was a critical step in consolidating the political strength of the Ijaw community in Delta State. Participants emphasized the need to leverage their demographic advantage to gain more influence within the APC and secure key positions in the upcoming state congress.

The Ijaw APC leaders also commended President Bola Tinubu, with the group acknowledging his recent actions that they believe have benefited the Ijaw people. Notable among these was the award of the pipeline surveillance security contract to Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a move seen as providing local security and economic opportunities. The appointments of Dr. Dennis Otuaro as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme and Barr. Bosin Ebikeme as Chairman of the Niger Delta Basin Development Authority was also applauded.

However, the Ijaw APC leaders indicated that they expect further recognition and more opportunities for Ijaws in the national and state political landscape. They resolved to unite and work together as a cohesive group to ensure the Ijaw community’s interests are strongly represented in the 2027 elections.

The meeting also saw the signing of a resolution by key figures, including Hon. Paul Azorbo Amabiri, Hon. Napoleon Kenerekedi, Tinaka Kayode, and other prominent Ijaw APC leaders.

Orubebe further urged Ijaws to unite to ensure their place in the APC and the governance of Delta State.