By Ebenezer Adurokiya, Reporting
THE atmosphere was as electrifying as it was of colour and culture. Across the expansive venue, the Aghofen (Palace) ground of the Olu of Warri, vibrant shades of white tops paired with red and sky-blue wrappers reflected the rich Itsekiri cultural identity. From elders draped in regal traditional attire to youths adorned in carefully arranged beads and wrappers, the gathering carried the unmistakable aura of totemic pride and heritage. The event itself was packed with the who-and-who of the Itsekiri nation, creating a scene that felt both historic and celebratory on Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Traditional Itsekiri songs rented the air in rhythmic waves as drums echoed across the arena. The Udefi Descendants and the Ukpolokposo dancers appeared in graceful formation, clothed in flowing white attire decorated with beautiful coral beads. In their hands were white Otusin fan-like instruments and handkerchiefs tied elegantly around their heads. Their movements blended precision with elegance, each step carrying the weight of history and the spirit of a people deeply and unashamedly connected to their roots.
The arrival of the Olu of Warri, His Majesty, Atuwatse 111, transformed the atmosphere entirely. A deeper sense of reverence swept through the crowd as the Itsekiri national anthem began. Men and women stood at attention, lips moving rhythmically in solemn recitation. At the close of the anthem, the multitude bowed respectfully to the monarch at the sacred “Ogiame Suo” call. It was a beautiful sight to behold – a powerful display of loyalty, love and reverence for culture and kingship. Moments later, the dancers resumed another frenetic round of performances in honour of the crown, while the skies above remained brilliantly clear, as though nature itself had aligned with the grandeur of the day.
Warri stood still on Saturday as multitude of residents, political supporters, traditional chiefs and cultural groups gathered for the Itsekiri Endorsement Mega Rally held under the theme, “Itsekiri Stands with M.O.R.E and Renewed Hope — 4 + 4.” The event, colourful and politically symbolic, became more than an endorsement rally; it evolved into a celebration of identity, political continuity and cultural solidarity.
The rally brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, businessmen, women groups, youths and community associations from across Delta State and beyond. They included the governor’s wife, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori; Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme; former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; members of the National and Delta State House of Assembly; commissioners; council chairmen; party leaders; and traditional rulers including the Orodje of Okpe, the Pere of Akugbene Mein Kingdom, His Majesty Kalanama VIII and the Ovie of Uvwie, HM Abe I.
Everywhere around the venue, songs of unity echoed through loudspeakers as supporters waved banners bearing the images of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and President Bola Tinubu.
Long before the governor arrived, the venue had already transformed into a carnival of culture. Elderly women sang ancient folk songs while younger supporters danced energetically to cultural drumming. The scent of the riverine breeze mixed with the dust raised by dancing feet as chants of support filled the air.
The endorsement rally was spearheaded by notable Itsekiri leaders who described the gathering as a collective expression of appreciation for ongoing developmental projects in Warri and surrounding riverine communities. For many attendees, the rally symbolised gratitude as much as political alignment.
When Governor Oborevwori eventually arrived, cheers erupted from every corner of the venue. Women ululated loudly while supporters surged forward to catch a glimpse of the governor. Security operatives struggled briefly to contain the excitement as party faithful waved handkerchiefs, sang and danced.
The governor, visibly moved by the reception, stood before the massive crowd and acknowledged the significance of the endorsement, declaring:
“I must thank the Itsekiri Nation for endorsing the president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and myself. I appreciate you your majesty for the honour bestowed on me by the royal order. I have seen where people go and lobby for endorsement. This one is organic. The Itsekiri Nation stands out as a symbol of strength and resilience within the Nigerian federation.”
The crowd responded with loud applause and chants of support, many nodding in agreement as the governor continued outlining his administration’s infrastructural achievements.
“In my inaugural speech, I assured Deltans that my administration will uphold the principles of equity, fairness and justice in the distribution of infrastructural projects across all the senatorial district of the State. My administration has been consistent in making sure Warri wears a new face.”
His speech centred heavily on infrastructure, particularly projects targeted at riverine communities that had long complained of neglect. According to the governor, development under his administration had spread across all local government areas without exclusion.
“We have been commended by all Deltans for our inclusive approach to governance. As of today, there’s no local government that has been left out of our infrastructure agenda. Even more significant is our resolve to upgrade and update road infrastructure in our riverine communities,” he said.
One of the loudest cheers of the day erupted when the governor referenced the Trans Warri-Ode Itsekiri Road project, a development many attendees considered historic.
“The flagship of 21 kilometres not 20 kilometres trans Warri Ode-Itsekiri Road with 15 bridges which has been in the pipeline since 2006 has been completed by my administration. We took the bold step of clearing all outstanding construction liabilities and pump in the required resources to complete this project. The road runs from Ubeji to Ode-Itsekiri Round-about to Ijala, Orugbo to Aruba together with other sections. I am doing a lot in the Itsekiri riverine area and I will continue to do more. There’s benefits for continuity.”
For many within the crowd, the mention of the road project represented more than infrastructure. It symbolised long-awaited connection, economic opportunity and recognition for communities separated for decades by difficult terrain and water channels.
Traditional chiefs seated close to the podium nodded approvingly as the governor spoke. Some raised their walking sticks in acknowledgement while women groups chanted songs praising development and continuity.
Yet beyond the political speeches and endorsements, the day belonged equally to culture. Throughout the rally, dancers repeatedly took centre stage, spinning gracefully to traditional drums while spectators clapped rhythmically in admiration.
The presence of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, further added profound traditional significance to the gathering. Regal in appearance and commanding in presence, the monarch’s entrance shifted the atmosphere from political celebration to solemn reverence.
When the monarch eventually addressed the gathering, the venue fell into near silence. His words carried both spiritual weight and royal authority as he prayed openly for the governor.
“Your Excellency, one of the reasons you’re not being conferred with the same double honour that was given to the mother of this nation is that in the present of both your Royal father’s, I cannot presume to place beads on your neck so I will leave that particular honour to my brothers.”
The monarch continued with heartfelt prayers that resonated deeply with the audience. “May this symbolic show of unity become a standing reality for the entire duration for your tenure as governor and for those that will succeed you in 2031. I know that the other ethnicities in this state will be able to identify and resonate with this grand reception.”
As the monarch prayed, many in the audience listened attentively, some raising their hands in agreement while others bowed their heads reverently.
“I pray that you will have wisdom in abundance. You will have favour with God and with men. With gatekeepers and storekeepers. I pray for a heart of the people. May you always out the interest of the people and the state above every other interest.”
His voice remained calm yet commanding as he offered further counsel to the governor. “May wicked men and evil counsel be far away from you. May you have the courage to pick competence over sentiment every time. May you be blessed with discernment to hear inspiration that God has given you.”
The prayers drew loud “Isee” responses from different corners of the venue, underscoring the deep connection between traditional authority and political leadership within the community.
Earlier in his welcome address, the member representing Warri Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Thomas Ereyitomi, praised the governor’s leadership style and developmental efforts.
“We are conscious of the leadership you have displayed since you were elected as governor three years ago. Your infrastructural acumen has turned the state into a modern state. We trust that this occasion will further strengthen the ties of partnership, fostered continuous progress, reaffirmed reshared commitment to the development of all communities within Delta which is exactly what you’re doing.”
In a post-rally communique signed by Dr Alex Tosan Ideh, Chairman of the Central Organising Committee, Mr Austin Oribioye, Secretary and Alex Eyengho, Chairman of the Media and Publicity Sub-Committee, the organisers described the rally as historic and said it reflected widespread support for the continuation of the governor’s M.O.R.E. Agenda and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The communiqué stated that projects in road infrastructure, youth empowerment, education and healthcare, as well as sustained peace in partnership with the palace of the Olu of Warri, informed the decision.
“At the federal level, we acknowledge the bold economic reforms, the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, port revitalisation, and the Renewed Hope Agenda programmes benefiting the Itsekiri and Niger Delta,” the communiqué read.
The committee also expressed its appreciation to the large turnout of supporters, including Urhobo, Ijaw, Isoko, Anioma, Yoruba, Hausa and Igbo residents, party faithful and other Deltans who attended the event.
“The massive, peaceful and colourful gathering has sent a clear message to Nigeria: The Itsekiri stand for continuity, stability and completed projects. We do not change a winning team,” the statement read.
The organisers also commended security agencies, including the Nigerian Police and the Department of State Services, for maintaining order during the rally.
They also praised Governor Oborevwori for attending the rally and reassuring the people of further development for Warri and other parts of Delta State.
“We are especially grateful to His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for honouring the invitation of his people and for his reassuring words of more development for Warri and all of Delta State under the M.O.R.E. Agenda,” the statement added.
The committee further commended Ogiame Atuwatse III for his “fatherly role” in ensuring peace before, during and after the event.
Beyond the speeches, the event revealed the enduring strength of the Itsekiri identity. Young boys proudly carried cultural symbols while elderly women danced tirelessly beneath the scorching sun. The atmosphere remained festive from beginning to end, with songs, drumming and chants blending politics seamlessly with tradition.
Security agencies, including officers of the Nigerian Police and the Department of State Services, maintained calm throughout the rally as attendees moved freely around the venue without incident.
By evening, as supporters slowly departed and cultural music faded into the distance, the significance of the gathering still lingered heavily in the air. The rally had not merely endorsed political figures; it had showcased the enduring unity, pride and cultural resilience of the Itsekiri people.
For many who witnessed the gathering, the most unforgettable image remained that solemn moment when thousands bowed in unison before their king under the bright Warri sun, a striking reminder that beyond politics, culture still commands the deepest loyalty of the people.
