Ijaw Leaders Demand Inclusive Development in Delta State
Ahead of the 2027 governorship election, a prominent Ijaw leader and peace advocate, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has made it clear that the Ijaw community’s political support will hinge on the allocation and funding of key projects in the 2026 budget. This declaration comes as the Ijaw ethnic nationality in Delta State prepares for potential endorsements of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as their sole candidate.
During a press briefing in Warri, following an expanded stakeholders’ meeting, the Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom highlighted the importance of adequate inclusion and funding of projects in riverine areas. He emphasized that these communities, which are predominantly inhabited by the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic groups, deserve equal infrastructure attention.
Chief Mulade acknowledged the governor’s efforts in upland areas, particularly the proposed commissioning of the reconstructed Odimodi–Ogulagha road. However, he pointed out that riverine communities such as Ogulagha, Torugbene, Oporoza, Akugbene, and Ojobo face significant neglect despite their dense populations and contributions to state revenue through oil and gas operations.
“I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, for the infrastructural development revolution in the upland areas,” he said. “However, it is imperative to state that Ijaw communities such as Ogulagha, Torugbene, Oporoza, Akugbene, and Ojobo are more densely populated than some upland local government headquarters, yet are often deprived of development due to the so-called terrain challenges.”
He reminded the governor that the Ijaws have consistently supported him throughout the election period and pledged continued political backing in 2027—provided the 2026 budget reflects meaningful development for riverine areas.
“We have maintained a peaceful atmosphere to boost oil and gas production, making Delta the richest state, while supporting security, reducing restiveness, and promoting economic stability. It is now time for the governor to reciprocate through the 2026 budget with tangible legacy projects,” he stated.
Key Infrastructure Projects Demanded
Chief Mulade called on the governor to prioritize several critical infrastructural projects, including:
- The Ayakoromo Bridge
- The Omadino–Okerenkoko–Kokodiagbene–Escravos Road
- The Aladja–Ogbe-Ijoh Road
- The Ojobo–Torugbene Road
Additionally, he urged the state government to establish a first-class health centre or general hospital in Ogulagha Town as compensation for the people’s contributions to state revenue.
Education and Agricultural Development
On education, Chief Mulade appealed for the upgrading of the Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, into a campus of Delta State University, Abraka, to enhance opportunities within the blue economy.
He also called for a campus of Dennis Osadebe University to be established in Koko, with a special focus on agriculture, to give the Itsekiri people a sense of belonging.
“These projects are the lifeline of the Delta Ijaw people and will directly influence their political decisions in 2027,” he affirmed. “The inclusion of transformative projects in the 2026 budget will not only give riverine communities a sense of belonging but also etch Governor Oborevwori’s name in gold as a true advocate of inclusive development.”