Delta 2027: Ijaw Votes Tied to 2026 Budget, Project Allocation – Mulade

Ahead of the 2027 Delta State governorship election, a prominent Ijaw leader, Comrade (Chief) Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has declared that the Ijaw electorate’s support will hinge on the inclusion and adequate funding of projects for riverine communities in the 2026 state budget.

Speaking at a press briefing in Warri after an expanded stakeholders meeting on behalf of the Ijaw Ethnic Nationality, Mulade emphasized that riverine areas  predominantly inhabited by Ijaws and Itsekiris have been neglected in terms of infrastructural development, despite hosting multinational oil and gas companies that contribute significantly to state revenue.

“I want to sincerely appreciate His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for the infrastructural development in the upland areas. However, some Ijaw communities such as Ogulagha, Torugbene, Oporoza, Akugbene, Ojobo, etc., are densely populated yet deliberately deprived of development due to so-called terrain challenges,” he said.

Mulade commended Governor Oborevwori’s achievements in upland areas but called for a reciprocation of development in the riverine regions, warning that Ijaw political support in 2027 would depend on tangible commitments.

“We have supported the governor throughout the election season, creating a conducive atmosphere for oil and gas production, promoting security, and ensuring economic stability. It is time for the 2026 budget to reflect tangible legacy projects for the Delta Ijaw nation,” Mulade asserted.

He highlighted key projects that should be prioritized, including:

Ayakoromo Bridge

Omadino-Okerenkoko-Kokodiagbene-Escravos Road

Aladja-Ogbe-Ijoh Road

Ojobo-Torugbene Road

He also called for the construction of first-class health centers/general hospitals in riverine communities, particularly Ogulagha Town, and urged the upgrading of Delta State Maritime Polytechnic, Burutu, to a campus of Delta State University, Abraka, as well as the establishment of a Dennis Osadebe University campus at Koko to benefit the Itsekiri community.

“The inclusion of these revolutionary projects in the 2026 budget will give a sense of belonging to our people, recognizing their huge contributions. Commitment to development will write Governor Oborevwori’s name in gold, rather than just seeking votes during elections,” Mulade said.

He assured that, with proper consideration of riverine development in the 2026 budget, the Ijaws would deliver 100 percent of their votes in the 2027 governorship election.