Itsekiri Elder Warns Of Rising Tensions Over Warri Delineation
Itsekiri Leader Raises Alarm Over Escalating Tensions
PROMINENT Itsekiri leader, businesswoman and philanthropist, Rita Ogbebor, has called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the growing tensions surrounding the ward and polling unit delineation exercise in Delta State’s Warri Federal Constituency.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lagos, the elder stateswoman expressed concern that unresolved grievances among the Itsekiri, Ijaw and Urhobo ethnic groups could trigger a fresh cycle of unrest in the oil-rich Niger Delta region.
According to her, political interests and competition for influence in the area have continued to fuel divisions that threaten peace and stability.
Concerns Over Ethnic Mobilisation
Ogbebor alleged that recent activities by ethnic organisations and political actors have heightened anxiety within Itsekiri communities.
She claimed that public mobilisations and statements by some groups were creating an atmosphere of confrontation rather than dialogue.
The Itsekiri leader warned that continued escalation of tensions could undermine decades of efforts aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence among the various ethnic nationalities in the Warri axis.
She urged stakeholders to prioritise constructive engagement and conflict resolution mechanisms before disagreements spiral beyond control.
Historical Disputes Resurface
The veteran community leader linked the current controversy to the violent ethnic conflicts that engulfed Warri between 1997 and 2003.
According to her, disputes over political representation, local government administration and access to oil-related resources have historically shaped relations among the communities.
She argued that many of the underlying issues that contributed to past conflicts remain unresolved and continue to influence contemporary debates over electoral boundaries and political influence.
Calls for Protection and Political Reforms
Ogbebor appealed to the Federal Government to ensure the safety of residents and prevent any breakdown of law and order.
She also renewed longstanding calls for the creation of a Warri State, arguing that such a move would strengthen political representation and address concerns about the future of the Itsekiri people.
The proposal, she maintained, would provide a framework for stability and equitable development within the region.
INEC Delineation Exercise at Centre of Dispute
The controversy stems from the Independent National Electoral Commission’s ongoing implementation of a Supreme Court judgment delivered in 2022, directing the commission to redraw wards and polling units in Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North Local Government Areas.
The exercise has generated competing claims among the Itsekiri, Ijaw and Urhobo groups, each seeking what they consider fair representation within the electoral structure.
While Ijaw and Urhobo stakeholders have repeatedly called for immediate implementation of the delineation report, Itsekiri groups have continued to challenge aspects of the exercise, alleging marginalisation.
Awaiting INEC’s Final Decision
INEC has yet to release its final position on the delineation process, despite several rounds of consultations and protests by stakeholders.
The electoral commission has previously disclosed that it is working with relevant security agencies and government institutions to manage the sensitive issues arising from the exercise.
As preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, observers believe the commission’s eventual decision will play a crucial role in determining the political atmosphere across the Warri Federal Constituency and the wider Niger Delta region.
