Ibori, Oborevwori Close Ranks, Hold Close Door Meeting in Osubi

..Keep supporters guessing

By Felix Ofou and Innocent Ojefia

Former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Onanefe Ibori, penultimate Saturday paid a private visit to the Governor of the State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori, at his residence in Osubi, near Warri.

The meeting, which took place behind closed doors, was held away from the media and political aides, fueling speculation within political circles about the significance of the engagement between the two influential leaders.

While details of their discussions were not disclosed, the visit has drawn considerable attention from observers and stakeholders in the state’s political space.

Analysts note that interactions between the two leaders often attract heightened interest due to their considerable influence in shaping the political direction of Delta State.

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Moreover, both leaders pitched tent with separate political camps ahead of the 2023 general elections, with Ibori reportedly supporting Oborevwori’s main rival, Olorogun David Edevbie for the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Oborevwori later won the ticket and subsequently emerged victorious in the governorship tussle, winning 21 out of the 25 LGAs in the state. Relations between Ibori and Oborevwori have allegedly not been very warm after the contest.

Political watchers believe the private engagement may be part of ongoing consultations among key stakeholders as alignments and strategic discussions continue to evolve within the State’s political landscape, especially since Oborevwori crossed to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2025.

Ibori, who served as governor from 1999 to 2007, has not officially joined the APC but remains one of the most prominent political figures in the Niger Delta region and continues to command significant loyalty across the State’s political structure.

On the other hand, Governor Sheriff F. O. Oborevwori, who currently leads the State government, has maintained close consultations with political leaders and stakeholders as part of efforts to sustain unity and stability within the State’s political environment.

The visit underscores the continuing engagement among senior political figures in Delta State as political consultations and strategic alignments gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, a contest that is expected to shape the next phase of leadership and political direction in the State.

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However, supporters of both political heavyweights have been at a loss as to the reason for the meeting in Osubi since no explanation has been given, with many of them praying that the last frontier of likely tension is the future has been conquered

There are expectations that with Ibori and Oborevwori now seemingly working together, that the state will witness greater peace, unity and political cohesion as we move closer to the 2027 elections.

Office of the New Media, Governor’s Office.