Notable ex-militant leader and Mayor of Urhoboland, Eshanekpe Israel, also known as Akpodoro, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu's re-election bid in 2027. This comes after Alhaji Asari Dokubo, leader of the defunct Niger Delta Volunteer Force, expressed opposition to President Tinubu's potential re-election.

Akpodoro, speaking to journalists in Abuja, acknowledged Dokubo's right to support anyone he chooses, but emphasized that the Niger Delta region firmly backs Chief Government Ekpemukpolo, also known as Tompolo. He noted the significant socio-economic progress made in the region under President Tinubu's administration, citing human and material development as key indicators of success
According to him; the Niger Delta region has witnessed substantial growth and development under President Tinubu's administration and the well-being of the majority of the people, rather than individual interests, should be the measure of governance in the region.
Going further, he stated that the President has built an equitable political system, empowering the next generation of Nigerians to take leadership roles.
In his words; The President Tinubu-led administration has been fair to all sections of the country in his bid to build an equitable political system including empowering the next generation of Nigerians to take the mantle of leadership when their time comes.”
“It is mischievous for anyone to expect President Tinubu to patronise him at the detriment of the development and growth. He appointed a technocrat, Dr. Dennis Otuaro, as the Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP; the engine of the service in the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC is grinding nonstop. Those we trust in the region were appointed and more than ever before, our creek is experiencing peace as Tantita Security Services Nig LTD, is waging relentless war on oil thieves thereby whittling down the power of criminals,”

Akpodoro urged Dokubo to wait until 2027 to align with his preferred candidate, while the rest of the Niger Delta region rallies behind President Tinubu. With the region experiencing unprecedented peace and development, Akpodoro expressed confidence in President Tinubu's ability to lead Nigeria towards a brighter future.