Members of the 1st to 8th Delta State House of Assembly, on Thursday, held an extraordinary session in Asaba where they unanimously adopted President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori as their sole candidates for the 2027 Presidential and Governorship elections, respectively.
At the special session, presided over by the current Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, the serving and former legislators also passed a vote of implicit confidence in both leaders for their contributions to good governance and development.
The motion was moved by a member of the 1st Assembly and a former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Halims Agoda, and seconded by Hon. Kris Njokwuemeni, a member of the 2nd Assembly and former Majority Leader.
The adoption and confidence votes formed the highlight of the maiden edition of the Delta State House of Assembly Speaker’s Annual Leadership Series, themed “Leadership Dynamics in the Delta State House of Assembly: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.” The event brought together former lawmakers—referred to as Non-Sitting Members—and members of the 8th Assembly.
In his keynote address, Speaker Guwor stressed the need for consensus-building within the Legislature in the face of diverse and competing interests to strengthen inclusive governance in Delta State.
“It is with great pleasure, humility, and a deep sense of history that I welcome you all to this memorable gathering of Non-Sitting Members and Members of the 8th Assembly. Today, we are not just holding an event; we are connecting the past with the present and laying a stronger foundation for the future of legislative governance in our dear state,” he said.
Guwor noted that every Assembly from 1992 to date had played a key role in shaping Delta State’s democratic journey, navigating unique challenges while remaining committed to democracy, representation, and service. He added that it was especially significant to have Governor Sheriff Oborevwori present—a former Presiding Officer of the 6th and 7th Assemblies.
He described the gathering as a platform for reflection, mentorship, and knowledge exchange. According to him, the experiences of former legislators are invaluable for strengthening institutional memory and enhancing effective lawmaking.
The Speaker emphasised the need for cooperation between the Legislature and Executive, noting that a productive relationship—rooted in firm oversight, fairness, and a focus on results—is vital for sustainable development.
“Today’s gathering reminds us that the House of Assembly is a living institution—one that grows and evolves with each Assembly. Let us use this opportunity to deepen our unity, renew our shared purpose, and strengthen our resolve to make Delta State a model of legislative excellence and good governance,” he stated.
He thanked the legislators for their support for President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori, describing their adoption for another term as a positive signal for Delta State’s continued progress.
Former lawmakers including Rt. Hon. Victor Ochei, Frank Enekorogha, Emmanuel Okoro, Basil Ganagana, Ovie Agas, Funkekeme Solomon, Orezi Esievo, Anthony Elekeokwuri, and Johnson Erijo commended Speaker Guwor for the initiative. They said the gathering would promote peace, unity, and prosperity across the state.
Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, who chaired the Planning Committee, described the event as the first of its kind in Nigeria. He thanked all participants, noting that the camaraderie and shared experiences would remain memorable.
A communiqué is expected at the time of filing this report.
