Delta NDC candidate rejects Urhobo endorsement of Oborevwori

The Nigeria Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Delta State, Chris Iyovwaye, has rejected the endorsement of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as the Urhobo Nation’s sole candidate for the 2027 election. Iyovwaye said in a statement on Saturday that he respected the traditional rulers who made the endorsement but argued that it could not override the electorate’s constitutional right to choose the governor at the ballot box. The Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo, a forum of Urhobo traditional rulers, had backed Oborevwori for a second term.

Iyovwaye said an endorsement, regardless of its source, could not remove Deltans’ democratic choice. He also opposed determining the governorship through an ethnic consensus, saying Delta State included Urhobo, Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, Anioma and other communities. He described the governorship as a trust sought from all Deltans rather than a position conferred by one ethnic group.

Iyovwaye said the endorsement should prompt voters to examine the performance of the incumbent administration. He questioned what measurable economic transformation residents were receiving from the state’s resources and said political alignment should be assessed by its practical benefits. The candidate acknowledged reported government investments in roads, bridges and other infrastructure, but said spending should be judged by its effect on residents.

“Expenditure is not the same thing as transformation,” he said. Iyovwaye said the 2027 election should focus on performance, accountability, competence and programmes. He said he would continue campaigning peacefully across Delta State and would not step down, while recognising both the traditional rulers’ standing and Oborevwori’s right to contest.