(DDM) – Traditional leaders in Warri have called on Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to take immediate steps to address escalating ethnic tensions between the Itsekiri and Ijaw communities.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the call was made on Monday at the Palace of the Olu of Warri, during a press briefing held by the Warri Council of Chiefs.
The chiefs demanded the establishment of a formal panel of inquiry to investigate the recent killings, unrest, and violations of territorial boundaries.
High Chief Mene Brown, Ogwa-Olusan of Warri Kingdom, insisted that Warri remains an Itsekiri homeland and must be protected from further destabilization.
He condemned the recent murder of Dele Ogunbayo on September 18, describing it as a serious threat to peace and the safety of residents.
Chief Brown emphasized that the council’s concern extends beyond ethnic loyalties, stressing that the rule of law must be upheld to prevent future violence.
The chiefs also urged the Inspector-General of Police to carry out a thorough investigation into alleged lapses in security and law enforcement.
They warned that any continued disregard for court rulings on land and territorial disputes could provoke unrest and undermine community trust in governance.
Chief Robinson Ariyo, a member of the Warri Council of Chiefs, linked Ogunbayo’s death to threats reportedly issued by a faction of the Ijaw community.
He stressed that government authorities must prioritize the protection of human lives above political calculations or partisan interests.
The council further noted that inter-ethnic cooperation is vital for economic and social stability in Warri, highlighting the city’s role as Delta State’s commercial hub.
DDM gathered that the chiefs reiterated their commitment to peace, urging community leaders to engage youths in dialogue and discourage acts of retaliation.
The council also called on the Ogbe-Ijoh monarch to comply with court rulings regarding the removal of banners and billboards that have sparked territorial disputes.
They emphasized that adherence to judicial orders is essential for preventing escalation and fostering lasting harmony among the communities.
Local observers expressed concern that repeated incidents of violence could deter investors and disrupt ongoing developmental projects in Warri.
The Warri Council of Chiefs concluded by appealing to both state and federal authorities to intervene swiftly, enforce justice, and ensure that no further bloodshed occurs in the region.
DDM gathered that the council’s statement reflects growing anxiety among traditional leaders and residents over recurring ethnic conflicts that threaten the city’s peace and security.
The chiefs’ appeal aligns with broader calls from civil society, youth organizations, and security experts, all emphasizing the urgent need for mediation, law enforcement, and community reconciliation.
