The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress in Delta State, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, has rejected Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s endorsement as the “sole candidate” of the Urhobo Nation for the 2027 governorship election, declaring that he will not withdraw from the race.
The Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo, a forum of Urhobo traditional rulers, had endorsed Oborevwori for a second term, but Iyovwaye said the decision could not override the right of Deltans to choose their governor at the ballot.
In a statement on Saturday, the NDC candidate said he respected the traditional rulers but maintained that their endorsement was not a substitute for an election.
“I hold our royal fathers and the exalted institutions they represent in the highest esteem. They are sacred custodians of our history, culture, customs and communal values.
“However, under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the electorate alone has the authority to elect the Governor of Delta State through the ballot box.
“An endorsement, no matter how dignified its source, cannot supersede or extinguish Deltans’ democratic right to choose their leaders,” he said.
Iyovwaye, who described himself as a “dutiful son of Urhobo land”, said the governorship could not be determined through an ethnic consensus because Delta State comprised several ethnic groups.
“As an Urhobo man, I deeply understand the value of unity. But Delta State belongs to all of us — Urhobo, Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko, Anioma, and every community that calls this state home
“The governorship is a sacred trust sought from all Deltans, not a title conferred by an ethnic consensus,” he said.
He said the endorsement should also prompt voters to examine the performance of the incumbent administration rather than simply accept political arrangements.
“Accordingly, the central question should no longer simply be: ‘How much revenue does Delta State receive?’
“The more important question is: ‘What measurable economic transformation are Deltans receiving in return for these substantial resources?’” he said.
He said, “Deltans should not be asked to celebrate political alignment when what they require is meaningful economic transformation.
“If alignment with the Federal Government is presented as an advantage, then the people are entitled to ask: Where are the measurable benefits?”
“These are not partisan questions. They are questions every responsible government should be prepared to answer,” he said.
The NDC candidate acknowledged the state government’s reported investments in roads, bridges and other infrastructure, but argued that government spending should be measured by its impact on the people.
“Those projects should be acknowledged where they serve the people. But expenditure is not the same thing as transformation,” he said.
He said the 2027 election should consequently focus on the performance and programmes of candidates rather than endorsements.
“That is why the 2027 election should be a referendum not merely on endorsements, personalities or political arrangements, but on performance, accountability, competence and vision,” Iyovwaye said.
Iyovwaye said he would continue campaigning across the state and would not step down from the contest.
“Performance must be the standard. Development must be the measure. Accountability must be non-negotiable. And the people must remain the final judge,” he said.
He added that he would continue campaigning across the state and would not withdraw from the 2027 race.
“I respect our royal fathers. I respect Governor Oborevwori’s right to run. And above all, I respect the sacred right of every Deltan to choose. I will continue to campaign peacefully, constructively and firmly. I will not step down,” Iyovwaye said.
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