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By News Desk

ASABA, Delta State – In a swift move to quell rising tensions over the ongoing ward and unit delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, convened an emergency peace meeting on Monday with leaders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities at Government House, Asaba.

The high-level gathering, which included ethnic leaders, security chiefs, and top government officials, was called amid growing concerns that the boundary review process could spark unrest in the oil-rich constituency.

Addressing the meeting, Governor Oborevwori underscored that peace and security are central pillars of his administration’s MORE Agenda, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue over conflict.

“We want peace in Warri Federal Constituency. The stakeholders have assured me that they will keep to the peace accord. Under the MORE Agenda, we have promised Deltans enhanced peace and security, and we do not need any crisis in our dear state,” Oborevwori said.

“Warri is one family. There is nothing that we cannot resolve through dialogue. That is why I called this meeting, even at a short notice. We are ready to work together and sustain the peace we are enjoying.”

Following the governor’s appeal, leaders from the three ethnic groups gave firm commitments to de-escalate tensions.

Chief Godspower Gbenekama, speaking for the Ijaw ethnic nationality, declared: “The governor has given us a marching order to ensure there is no crisis. I assure the people of Delta State that no Ijaw man will attack any Itsekiri man or village. It will not happen. By the grace of God, there will be continuous peace.”

Olorogun Victor Okumagba, representing the Urhobo ethnic nationality, acknowledged that the delineation issues had “been threatening the peace in Warri” but confirmed that after extensive discussions, “all parties should sheath their swords.”

On behalf of the Itsekiri, Chief Ayirimi Emami stated: “We came with our position regarding the ward delineation issue, but the governor has spoken and directed that everyone should keep their swords. We have all agreed to maintain peace and will return home to relay the message to our people.”

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to uphold peace and pursue further dialogue. Political observers described the intervention as a significant step toward easing inter-ethnic friction and preserving stability in the volatile federal constituency.