Tension Boils In Warri! Itsekiri Youths Storm Streets, Threaten War Over INEC Ward Delineation

A major crisis appears to be unfolding in Warri, Delta State, as aggrieved Itsekiri youths on Monday staged a violent protest at Okumagba Estate in Okere-Urhobo territory over the recent ward delineation exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Carrying placards with various inscriptions and chanting war songs, the protesters publicly targeted High Chief (Dr.) Oweizide Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, his private security outfit — TANTITA Security Services Nigeria Limited — and the Coordinator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

The Itsekiri youths issued stern warnings of impending conflict with both the Ijaw and Urhobo communities in Warri if INEC fails to reverse its decision on the ward delineation.

Our correspondent, who monitored the unfolding events, observed that Okere-Urhobo youths maintained a peaceful stance and refused to be provoked, thereby avoiding escalation. The Ijaw community also remained calm, particularly after recently commemorating the late Maj. Jasper Isaac Adaka Boro’s memorial.

Reacting to the development, Comrade Austin Ozobo, National President of the Ijaw People’s Development Initiative (IPDI), condemned the protest, describing it as an incursion into Ijaw areas in NPA and Okere-Urhobo.

“They stormed a business premises, vandalized vehicles, assaulted individuals, and caused injuries,” Ozobo alleged.

He further warned that the actions of the Itsekiri protesters amounted to a declaration of war, but revealed he had urged victims to remain calm and refrain from retaliation.

Ozobo called on Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Commissioner of Police CP Olufemi to launch a full investigation into the incident and ensure those responsible are held accountable in the interest of peace and justice.

Attempts to reach the Okere-Urhobo youth president for comment were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.