From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Fresh tensions between the Urhobo and Itsekiri communities in Warri South Local Government Area have prompted a strong appeal for peace from Ede Dafinone, Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District. He urged restraint and dialogue amid reports of violence, including attacks on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) Secretariat in Okere-Urhobo.
“I received with deep concern the reports of fresh crisis between the Itsekiris and Urhobos in Warri South,” Senator Dafinone said in a statement on Tuesday. “At this critical time, I appeal to all parties to exercise restraint and shun any acts of violence. I further call on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to act swiftly in de-escalating the situation and ensuring the safety of all communities.”
The lawmaker condemned the reported attacks on the UPU House, which he described as a symbolic institution of Urhobo identity.
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“I am particularly troubled by reports of attacks on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) House at Okere-Urhobo, which also resulted in injuries to some Urhobo youths. Such acts are deeply regrettable, as the UPU represents the heritage and identity of the Urhobo people worldwide,” he said. “An attack on the UPU is, by extension, an attack on the entire Urhobo Nation.”
The Warri crisis has long roots in historical disputes over land, political representation, and ethnic identity between the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw groups, who have coexisted for centuries along the oil-rich creeks of Delta State. In the 1990s, violent clashes in Warri claimed hundreds of lives and displaced thousands of residents, leaving scars that remain today.
Central to recent grievances is the delineation of electoral constituencies in Warri Federal Constituency. The Supreme Court had previously ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to undertake a review—a process many leaders believe would address claims of marginalization and restore balance in political representation.
Dafinone urged security agencies to uphold fairness while ensuring that law and order are maintained.
“In maintaining peace and security, it is important that security agencies remain neutral, fair, and proactive in order to prevent escalation,” he stressed. “The Urhobos of Warri, like all citizens, deserve protection from the Nigerian state.”
He also emphasized dialogue over force: “Security measures must always prioritise dialogue, trust-building, and reconciliation, as these are the surest safeguards against a recurrence of conflict.”
Reaching out to the wider community, the Senator called for a united effort by traditional authorities, community leaders, and youth movements.
“I call on all stakeholders—traditional leaders, community elders, youth groups, and political actors—to join hands in fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect,” Dafinone said.
He further urged INEC to act decisively on the delineation matter: “It is equally important that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) concludes the Supreme Court–ordered delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency, as this will help address longstanding grievances and lay a stronger foundation for peaceful coexistence.”
“The Urhobos and our Itsekiri neighbours have coexisted as brothers for decades, sharing cultural, social, and economic ties that must not be destroyed by avoidable conflicts,” Dafinone noted. “Together, we can sustain the bonds of brotherhood and build a future anchored on justice and harmony.”
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