The Mayor of Urhoboland, Eshanekpe Israel, popularly known as Akpodoro, has asserted that President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 does not rely on the support of Alhaji Asari Dokubo, former leader of the Niger Delta Volunteer Force (NDVF).
Akpodoro emphasized that while Dokubo has the right to align with any candidate of his choice, Tinubu’s strong backing within the Niger Delta and across Nigeria will carry him through.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja at a pro-Tinubu conference organized by the Coalition for Tinubu’s Re-Election in 2027, Akpodoro pointed out that Dokubo’s stance is a personal one and doesn’t reflect the views of the Niger Delta at large.
He reiterated that key leaders in the region, including Chief Government Ekpemukpolo, known as Tompolo, are supportive of Tinubu’s leadership.
“Tinubu doesn’t need the endorsement of any single individual to secure re-election,” Akpodoro declared. “The Niger Delta overwhelmingly supports him because of the positive developments we are seeing in our region under his administration.”
Akpodoro highlighted the transformation in the Niger Delta, citing new opportunities in human and material development that have improved conditions across the area.
He stressed that the current administration’s success in the region should be measured by tangible benefits to the people, rather than individual expectations.
“One person’s dissatisfaction does not define the success of Tinubu’s government,” he remarked. “Real progress means delivering economic empowerment and growth for the majority, not satisfying one man’s appetite.”
Akpodoro further stated that Niger Deltans are ready to back Tinubu’s 2027 bid more strongly than they did in 2023, confident in his ability to continue meaningful reforms.
“The President Tinubu-led administration has been fair to all regions and is dedicated to establishing a balanced political system, empowering future Nigerian leaders,” he added.
Citing appointments such as Dr. Dennis Otuaro as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) and the effective operations of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Akpodoro credited Tinubu with fostering stability in the creeks through initiatives like Tantita Security Services Nig LTD, which is actively reducing oil theft.
Akpodoro however encouraged Dokubo to back whomever he wished in 2027, adding that the Niger Delta is committed to supporting Tinubu’s vision of a new Nigeria. “We are seeing the Midas touch in action,” Akpodoro said, “and we’re standing firmly with Tinubu.”
