2027: Delta NDC gov candidate rejects monarchs’ endorsement of Oborevwori

Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, the governorship candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Delta State, has rejected the endorsement of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by the traditional rulers of Urhobo Nation for the 2027 election. The Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo forum had endorsed Oborevwori to run again, but Iyovwaye stated that he would not withdraw from the race despite the endorsement.

In a statement, Iyovwaye expressed his deep respect for the Urhobo traditional rulers but emphasized that their endorsement does not override the democratic right of Deltans to choose their governor through the ballot. He stressed that the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria gives the electorate the authority to elect the Governor of Delta State, and no endorsement can supersede this democratic process.

Iyovwaye, who considers himself a "dutiful son of Urhobo land," acknowledged that Delta State comprises several ethnic groups and that the governorship cannot be determined through ethnic consensus. He argued that the election should be a referendum on performance, accountability, competence, and vision, rather than on endorsements, personalities, or political arrangements.