Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday stepped in to ease growing tensions over the ward and polling unit delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency by bringing together leaders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic groups for a peace meeting in Asaba.
The meeting, held at Government House, was attended by ethnic leaders, security chiefs and senior government officials. Discussions focused on maintaining peace and preventing any crisis arising from disagreements over the delineation exercise.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Oborevwori emphasized the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence among the people of Warri, saying that peace and security remain key priorities of his administration.
According to the governor, issues affecting the constituency can be resolved through dialogue rather than conflict.
He said the leaders present at the meeting had assured him of their commitment to maintaining peace and avoiding actions that could threaten stability in the area.
“We want peace in Warri Federal Constituency. Warri is one family, and there is no issue that cannot be resolved through discussion. We will continue to work with all ethnic groups and security agencies to sustain the peace we enjoy in Delta State,” the governor said.
Speaking on behalf of the Ijaw ethnic nationality, Chief Godspower Gbenekama praised the governor for intervening and assured residents that the Ijaw people would continue to promote peace.
He said no Ijaw community would engage in any attack against the Itsekiri people, adding that efforts would be made to ensure harmony among all groups.
Representing the Urhobo ethnic nationality, Olorogun Victor Okumagba said concerns over the delineation exercise had created tension in recent months, but expressed confidence that the meeting would help calm the situation.
He noted that all parties agreed to put aside their differences and work together in the interest of peace and development.
Also speaking, Chief Ayirimi Emami, who represented the Itsekiri ethnic nationality, said the group had presented its position on the delineation issue but accepted the governor’s appeal for peace.
He said the message of peace would be taken back to members of the Itsekiri community and urged everyone to avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
At the end of the meeting, leaders of the three ethnic nationalities pledged to maintain peace, continue dialogue and support efforts aimed at preserving harmony in Warri Federal Constituency.
Observers described the meeting as an important step toward reducing tensions and strengthening peaceful relations among the ethnic groups in the area.
