Warri North Debunks Ethnic Crisis Rumours
Warri North Chairman Dismisses Ethnic Crisis Claims
THE Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area, Festus Ashima, has dismissed reports of an alleged ethnic conflict between Ijaw and Itsekiri communities, assuring residents that peace and normalcy prevail across the council area.
Ashima described the reports circulating on social media as false, misleading and capable of creating unnecessary fear among residents.
Rumours Designed to Create Panic
In a statement issued on Sunday, the council chairman said there was no violent confrontation or security threat anywhere within Warri North.
According to him, individuals behind the reports were deliberately attempting to spread panic and disrupt the peaceful coexistence that has long existed among communities in the area.
“There is no crisis anywhere in Warri North. The rumour being circulated is completely false and should be disregarded by all well-meaning residents,” he stated.
Security Agencies Monitoring Situation
Ashima assured residents that security agencies remain fully deployed across the local government and are closely monitoring developments to ensure the maintenance of law and order.
He warned that authorities were already tracking those responsible for spreading false information and stressed that anyone found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.
The chairman noted that maintaining public confidence and preventing misinformation were essential to preserving peace and stability.
Appeal for Peaceful Coexistence
The council boss called on youths from both the Ijaw and Itsekiri communities to avoid inflammatory social media posts and instead promote messages of unity and peaceful coexistence.
He emphasized that both ethnic groups have lived together for generations and should not allow divisive narratives to undermine their long-standing relationship.
“Ijaw and Itsekiri people are brothers and sisters who have lived together for years in peace, mutual respect and shared humanity,” he said.
Residents Urged to Continue Daily Activities
Ashima appealed to residents to remain calm and continue their lawful activities without fear, assuring them that measures were in place to protect lives and property.
He also encouraged individuals who may have temporarily left their communities due to the rumours to return home, insisting that there was no security threat anywhere in the local government area.
The chairman reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining peace and warned against any attempt to promote ethnic hostility or division within Warri North.
