Opinion & Peace Advisory: Warri Tension Between Itsekiri and Ijaw Communities
Opinion & Peace Advisory: Warri Tension Between Itsekiri and Ijaw Communities
By Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
CEO, Global Egberi Media International • Dean, School of Applied Sciences, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku • Activist • Development Advocate • Peace Ambassador
Date: 16 September 2025
Warri on Edge: A Renewed Call for Peace and Unity
Fresh reports of violent confrontations between Itsekiri and Ijaw youths in Warri have sparked widespread concern across Delta State and beyond. Eyewitnesses and local media have confirmed clashes in parts of the city, raising fears of an escalation that could spiral into full-blown ethnic conflict if left unchecked.
Warri has long been the heartbeat of the Niger Delta, a hub for oil and gas operations, trade, and cultural exchange. Yet, it is also a city with a history of recurring communal tensions — often rooted in land disputes, resource sharing, and political representation. Past crises left deep scars: displacement of families, destruction of livelihoods, and years of insecurity.
Today’s tension is not “just another fight.” It is a dangerous spark that, if not doused immediately, could plunge the entire region into a cycle of reprisals, economic shutdown, and a humanitarian crisis.
Why This Moment Demands Urgency
History has shown that when law and order collapses in Warri, civilians pay the highest price. Markets and schools shut down, essential services grind to a halt, and oil-sector operations — a critical revenue stream for the state and nation — are disrupted. Opportunistic criminal elements often take advantage of such chaos, looting, attacking, and worsening insecurity for all.
Every act of retaliation multiplies grief. Every day of conflict delays development and destroys the very future we claim to protect.
A Direct Appeal to Both Communities
As a peace ambassador and advocate for justice, I appeal to both Itsekiri and Ijaw leaders, youths, and stakeholders to take the following urgent steps:
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Stop Reprisals Immediately: Violence cannot resolve disputes — it only deepens the wounds. Community leaders must call back their youths and halt any plans for further attacks or revenge.
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Prioritise Civilian Safety: Withdraw all roadblocks and avoid armed confrontations around markets, schools, and hospitals. Protect the vulnerable — women, children, and the elderly must be shielded from harm.
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Declare a Ceasefire: A 72-hour ceasefire and public de-escalation pledge will send a strong signal to both sides and allow room for dialogue. Community heads, religious leaders, and youth groups should issue joint statements committing to peace.
Practical Steps for the Next 24–72 Hours
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Security Posture: Security agencies must adopt a visible but measured presence — patrols to protect, not provoke. Arrest only confirmed instigators and communicate publicly on actions taken to build confidence.
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Emergency Mediation Team: Convene a joint mediation committee within 24 hours, including Itsekiri and Ijaw leaders, respected clergy, traditional rulers, women, and youth representatives.
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Humanitarian Corridors: Ensure that hospitals and relief points remain accessible, and set up safe passage routes for displaced persons.
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Control Misinformation: False rumours are fuelling panic. Verified updates must be broadcast regularly via radio, SMS, and community town criers to counter false narratives.
Medium-Term Solutions for Sustainable Peace
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Independent Inquiry: Establish a credible panel to investigate the root causes of the renewed tension — whether boundary disputes, political manipulation, or youth marginalisation — and make findings public.
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Inclusive Governance: Review local representation and ensure equitable access to appointments and opportunities for all communities.
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Youth Engagement: Expand youth employment and skills acquisition programmes to reduce restiveness and prevent manipulation by political actors.
A Message to Security Agencies and Government
This is not the time for heavy-handedness or hesitation. Security agencies must combine firmness with fairness — protect lives without indiscriminate use of force. Government officials, including the Delta State Governor and federal representatives, must not remain silent. They must visit Warri, meet stakeholders, and roll out a clear plan for conflict resolution and long-term development.
A Final Appeal to Citizens
Warri belongs to all of us. Do not allow anger to destroy your home, shop, or school. Do not spread rumours. If you can, shelter a neighbour from harm and insist that your youth leaders respect peace directives.
True peace is not just the absence of war; it is the presence of justice, dialogue, and mutual respect. We owe it to the next generation to build a Warri where diversity is strength — not a trigger for endless conflict.
Dr. Odimientimi Agbedeyi
CEO, Global Egberi Media International
Dean, School of Applied Sciences, Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku
Peace Ambassador & Development Advocate
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