Port Harcourt – The Ijaw community in Rivers State, under the aegis of the Rivers Ijaw People’s Congress (RIPCO), has officially endorsed President Bola Tinubu for re-election in 2027, describing a second term as crucial for the consolidation of his “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
The endorsement, announced at a media briefing in Port Harcourt by RIPCO leader Sen. George Sekibo, was co-signed by the group’s Director General, Mr. Rowland Sekibo, and Secretary, Mr. Erastus Awortu.
Sen. Sekibo emphasized that the decision followed careful deliberation on President Tinubu’s performance, highlighting achievements in human capital development, economic growth, and infrastructure projects across the state.
“In light of these accomplishments, and on behalf of the Rivers Ijaw people, we proudly adopt President Bola Tinubu as our candidate for the 2027 presidential election,” Sekibo said.
The group commended Tinubu for initiatives that have boosted commerce and connectivity within Rivers State, citing the establishment of the University of Environment, the completion of the Bodo-Bonny road, and ongoing rehabilitation of the East-West road as testaments to his leadership.
Sekibo further praised the President for his diplomatic intervention during political crises in the state, which, he said, has created a more stable environment, allowing citizens to pursue their activities peacefully.
He also noted the representation of Rivers indigenes in the current administration, highlighting over thirty key political appointments not previously achieved under past governments. Notable appointments include:
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Nyesom Wike – Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
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Desmond Akawo – Commissioner for Revenue Mobilisation
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Chukwuemeka Aaron – Commissioner, Federal Character Commission
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Emeka Woke – Director General, National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA)
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Chibudom Nwuche – South-South Development Commission
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Boma Iyaye – Director of Finance and Administration, NDDC
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Mrs. Didi Watson-Jack – Head of Civil Service of the Federation
Sekibo concluded that the collective endorsement was a reflection of the community’s confidence in Tinubu’s leadership and their desire for continuity in his transformative agenda.