The Traffic

"We Deserve a Seat at the Table": Itsekiri Chief Reminds Tinubu of Election Support, Demands Inclusion in Govt

By Achimi Muktar

In a closed-door meeting at the State House, Abuja, Itsekiri Chief and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Ayirimi Emami, made a bold appeal to President Bola Tinubu, reminding him of the crucial role the Itsekiri people of Delta State played in securing his victory during the last election. Emami emphasized that it was time for the Itsekiri to be rewarded with key roles in the government, as they worked hard for Tinubu’s electoral success.

"We Contributed, We Should Be Part of Your Government"

Speaking to State House correspondents after the meeting, Chief Emami did not mince words as he laid out the political expectations of his people. "We worked, we contributed, and we believe we should be part of the government," Emami stated, asserting that the Itsekiri people deserve a share of appointments and political representation under Tinubu's administration.

He added, "To whom much is given, much is expected. We supported the president, and our people need to be part of his government." Emami stressed that political inclusion for the Itsekiri is not just about representation but also about reaping the rewards of their support during the election campaign.

Warri Port and Key Regional Concerns

Chief Emami’s discussion with the president also touched on critical infrastructural and economic issues affecting the Itsekiri nation, particularly the long-standing concern over Warri Port. Emami highlighted the need for urgent attention to the port’s development and dredging, which has been a recurring issue for the people of Delta State. He revealed that Tinubu reassured him that plans were in motion to address these concerns, including involvement from the Group Managing Director (GMD) and key stakeholders.

“The issue of Warri Port has always been a major reason why we are coming to the Villa, and Mr. President assured us that they are working on the location and dredging of the bar mouth to improve the situation," Emami shared.

Infrastructure and Development

Beyond political representation, Chief Emami raised concerns about infrastructure, particularly the road from Omadino, passing through Gbaramatu to Ugborodo. He acknowledged that some progress has been made, with efforts from Chevron and the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to find solutions for the road project.

“Mr. President confirmed that Chevron and NDDC are working on a way forward for the road,” Emami said, emphasizing that these developments are critical to the economic and social welfare of the Itsekiri people.

Ogidigben Gas Project and Security Updates

The conversation also touched on the Ogidigben Gas Project, a major industrial development in Delta State. Emami confirmed that the project was a significant part of the discussion, noting that Tinubu had immediately directed relevant officials to follow up on the matter.

Regarding the security situation in the region, Chief Emami assured that the Delta waterways are currently some of the safest in the world, particularly along the Warri-Escravos route. "We don’t have many issues with security at the moment," he added, signaling a stable environment in the Itsekiri region.

A Call for Political Patronage

As the meeting concluded, Emami reinforced his people’s expectation for political inclusion, reiterating that the Itsekiri, who cast their votes for Tinubu, should not be left behind in the political landscape. "When you work, you expect some dividends," he said. "As Itsekiri, we actually voted for Mr. President, so we expect patronage and inclusion in his government."

With these discussions in motion, the Itsekiri people hope to secure key roles and drive further development in Delta State under the Tinubu administration. All eyes are now on the presidency to see how these demands will be addressed.