The governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Delta State, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, has said the endorsement of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by the Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo does not remove the constitutional right of Deltans to choose their governor in the 2027 election.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Iyovwaye reacted to the communiqué of the Urhobo traditional rulers, which declared the incumbent governor the “sole candidate” of the Urhobo Nation for the 2027 governorship poll.

He said he holds the traditional institution in high esteem as the custodian of the Urhobo people’s history, culture and values, but maintained that there is a clear distinction between traditional counsel and constitutional authority.

According to him, while royal fathers are entitled to express their views and provide guidance, the power to elect the governor belongs exclusively to the electorate through the ballot box.

Iyovwaye argued that Delta State belongs to all its ethnic nationalities, including the Urhobo, Ijaw, Itsekiri, Isoko and Anioma people, adding that the governorship is “a sacred trust sought from all Deltans, not a title conferred by an ethnic consensus.”

The NDC candidate also questioned the basis of the endorsement, saying Deltans deserve to assess the performance of the present administration beyond political alignment and public declarations of support.

He noted that the 2026 Delta State budget projected ₦1.664 trillion in expenditure, comprising statutory allocation, internally generated revenue and Value Added Tax receipts, alongside increased federal allocations following the removal of petrol subsidy.

According to him, the critical issue is no longer how much revenue the state receives, but what measurable economic transformation the people have experienced in return.

Iyovwaye said the Delta State Government should be judged on sustainable job creation, industrial growth, improved healthcare, education, reliable infrastructure and the strengthening of the productive economy.

He also referenced Governor Oborevwori’s decision to align Delta politically with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and his public support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election, arguing that such alignment creates an even greater obligation to demonstrate tangible benefits for residents.

“Political alignment is not development. Budgets are not development. Contracts are not development. Development is measured by the extent to which government improves the lives and economic prospects of its people,” the statement read.

While acknowledging ongoing investments in roads, bridges and other infrastructure, Iyovwaye maintained that public expenditure alone should not be mistaken for genuine economic transformation.

He said Deltans should compare the visions, competence and records of all governorship contenders before making their decision in 2027, insisting that the election should be a referendum on performance and accountability rather than endorsements.

The NDC candidate also announced plans to formally seek an audience with the Ukoko R’Ivie R’Urhobo to present his vision for Delta State, saying traditional rulers deserve to hear directly from every serious aspirant.

He concluded by reaffirming his respect for the royal institution and Governor Oborevwori’s right to seek re-election, while declaring that he would continue campaigning peacefully across the state’s 25 local government areas.

“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 not step down,” Iyovwaye stated.