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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Leaders from former President Goodluck Jonathan’s Ogbia Kingdom, spanning Bayelsa and Rivers states, on Wednesday rallied behind President Bola Tinubu, urging him to seek a second term in 2027 and pledging their unwavering political support.
They voiced their endorsement during a gratitude visit to President Tinubu in the State House, Abuja, celebrating his inclusive governance and Niger Delta advancements, while recalling Ogbia’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s oil era and unity.
Led by the paramount ruler, Obanobhan III, King Dumaro Charles Owaba, the delegation comprised traditional rulers who delivered a stirring address through King Collins Daniel, extolling Tinubu’s vision for a stronger Nigeria.
“In light of the above, we firmly believe that Mr. President has served us well. As such, we cannot help but reciprocate your kind gesture by inviting him to contest the next presidential election, backed by the full support of the Ogbia Kingdom. Mr. President, we are behind you,” King Daniel declared.
The group expressed deep thanks for Tinubu’s trust in Ogbia natives via high-profile roles, reigniting optimism in his leadership. “We have come first and foremost to express our heartfelt appreciation for your inclusive leadership and the confidence you have reposed in our sons and daughters through their recent appointments and re-appointments into key national positions,” the delegation stated, calling these picks “a powerful affirmation of our people’s faith in your administration.”
They hailed President Tinubu for appointing their sons including Supreme Court Justice Moore Abraham Aseima Adumein; Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) MD/CEO Dr Samuel Ogbuku; Bayelsa’s Federal Character Commission rep Sir Tonye Okio; and Special Assistant on Justice Reform and ICT/Digital Innovation Fernandez Marcus-Obiene.
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The group noted NDDC’s strides under Ogbuku, appointed 29 August 2023, saying, “Suffice it to say that virtually every community in Ogbia Kingdom and in the Niger Delta now enjoy solar lights at night, which has significantly illuminated the Niger Delta and boosted economic activities,” they noted, crediting the projects with curbing regional insecurity.
The leaders said other wins encompassed road builds, ecological fixes, enhanced clinics, and youth initiatives like Project HOPE in tech, farming, arts, and renewables. “Your appointment of Dr Samuel Ogbuku sends a clear message of your confidence in indigenous leadership and reinforces the trust of the Niger Delta people in your Renewed Hope Agenda,” the leaders affirmed, deeming the choice spot-on.
Federal efforts like the Oloibiri Oil Museum and Research Centre, Ogbia–Nembe–Brass Road rehabilitation, and Otuogori–Otuegwe Bridge were also praised. Ogbia positioned itself as “the cradle of Nigeria’s oil industry,” with 1956’s Oloibiri discovery reshaping the nation’s economy.
The delegation underscored sacrifices for unity, from Chief Melford Okilo’s 1959 alliance to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s 2015 concession. “Those critical moments clearly demonstrated that the people of Ogbia have consistently believed in, and sacrificed for, one indivisible Nigeria. Our contributions to the Nigerian project have been profound and enduring,” the visitors emphasised.
This legacy warrants priority aid, they argued, requesting an Ogbia Institute of Energy and Petroleum Studies, Akaba–Emadike Road collaboration, and erosion defences for coastal areas. Reaffirming loyalty, they invited Tinubu to visit and invoked blessings: “May God Almighty continue to grant you wisdom, strength and good health as you steer the affairs of our great nation.”
