Itsekiri Chiefs Urge Delta Government to Probe Rising Ethnic Tensions in Warri

Itsekiri Chiefs Urge Delta Government to Probe Rising Ethnic Tensions in Warri

 

 

The Itsekiri Traditional Council, under the Warri Council of Chiefs, has called on Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to set up a panel of inquiry into the ongoing inter-ethnic tensions between the Itsekiri and Ijaw communities in Warri Federal Constituency.

 

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Palace of the Olu of Warri on Saturday, the council expressed concern over the removal of banners marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Pere of Ogbe-Ijoh, HRM Couple Mackson Oromoni (Monbene III), from locations in Warri metropolis that fall within Itsekiri territory.

 

“This is our homeland, and we cannot allow it to be distorted. We stand for peace,” said Brown Mene, Ogwa-Olusan of Warri Kingdom, representing the chiefs.

 

The council also called on the Inspector-General of Police to carry out a thorough investigation into the incident. Additionally, they urged the Ogbe-Ijoh monarch to remove banners and billboards allegedly installed in Warri South Local Government Area, citing a lower court ruling declaring these areas outside his jurisdiction—a ruling currently under appeal.

 

Mene stated, “While this crisis predates the current administration, it is now the responsibility of Governor Oborevwori to calm tensions and ensure lasting peace.”

 

The dispute escalated earlier in the week when youths reportedly tore down the Ogbe-Ijoh coronation banners, igniting anger among the Ijaw community. The incident has since drawn attention from civil society and ethnic leaders.

 

Comrade Bene Youkore Mamamu, National President of the Niger Delta Youth Council, urged the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and other security agencies to intervene promptly, warning that failure to act could trigger further violence.

 

Similarly, Godspower Gbenekama, Fiowei (Spokesman) of Gbaramatu Kingdom, condemned the alleged involvement of some security operatives in the banner removals, describing it as “worrisome” given that those tasked with maintaining law and order appeared to have fueled the conflict.

 

He called on Governor Oborevwori to convene dialogue among the Itsekiri, Ijaw, Urhobo, and other ethnic groups in Warri, adding, “We know what war brings to Warri. Where there is conflict, the economy of Delta State and Nigeria suffers. Peace must prevail.”