2027: Ijaw youths back Tompolo’s endorsement of Tinubu’s re-election bid

The Arogbo Ijaw Youths Stakeholders’ Forum in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State has declared support for High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and his Door-to-Door campaign initiative aimed at securing a second term for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a communiqué issued at the end of their meeting in Agadagba-Obon, the youths commended Tompolo for providing what they described as “pan-Niger Delta leadership” and for “mainstreaming the Ijaw Nation into national politics by identifying opportunities that benefit our people.”

According to the forum, Tompolo has shown clear direction and leadership, hence their unanimous decision to back Tinubu’s re-election bid to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“The Forum, in this regard, urges all Ijaw clans and kingdoms across Nigeria to key into the path already cleared for the Ijaw Nation by Tompolo.

To achieve this objective, the Forum shall engage meaningfully with all Ijaw-speaking kingdoms to ensure Mr President secures a second term seamlessly,” the communiqué read.

The group also lauded President Tinubu for sustaining the services of Tantita Security Services Limited, describing its operations as pivotal to boosting crude oil production and enhancing energy security.

They further applauded the appointment of Dr Dennis Brutu Otuaro as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), noting that he has demonstrated “admirable leadership qualities” and sustained peace in the Niger Delta.

Similarly, the forum expressed gratitude for the appointment of Hon. (Dr) D. I. Kekemeke as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST), describing him as a pride of the Arogbo Ijaw people and a trusted leader within the APC.

The forum also appreciated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for appointing Dr Tob Loko as Commissioner for Environment and Hon. Lawrence Tibiebi Steven as Commissioner representing the Arogbo Ijaw Kingdom on the board of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).

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While acknowledging the unique cultural identity of the Arogbo Ijaw as a non-Yoruba-speaking people in Ondo State, the forum commended neighbouring communities for their support—particularly in the election of Rt. Hon. Donald Ojogo as the first Arogbo Ijaw man to represent Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

The group, however, pledged to continue pursuing every noble idea that would enhance the political standing of the Arogbo Ijaw Kingdom in line with national development.