Warri Tensions: PANDEF backs Oborevwori, urges unity, restraint

By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body of the South-South geopolitical zone, has commended Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for his efforts to sustain peace and unity in the Warri area through continuous engagement with stakeholders.

PANDEF also called on all parties involved in the ongoing concerns arising from ward delineation issues to exercise restraint and work towards preserving the long-standing harmony among the people of the area.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, the forum praised the governor’s proactive interventions and commitment to dialogue in addressing emerging tensions among communities in Warri.

According to PANDEF, Governor Oborevwori had, even before his visit to Warri on Monday, June 8, 2026, convened meetings in Asaba as part of efforts to foster peace among Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo leaders.

“The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) notes with appreciation the efforts of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State, to sustain the existing peace and unity in the Warri area through effective engagement with relevant stakeholders in the past months,” the statement said.

“We particularly note that even before coming directly to Warri on Monday, June 8, 2026, to meet with Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo leaders over emerging conflicts arising from ward delineations, the governor had earlier convened similar peace efforts in Asaba.”

The forum reminded community leaders and residents of the enduring historical and cultural ties that have united the people of Warri for centuries, stressing that these bonds should not be undermined by political disagreements.

Describing Warri as one of Nigeria’s most remarkable cities of culture and tradition, PANDEF noted that the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic groups have coexisted peacefully for generations, engaging in trade, intermarriage and cultural exchanges.

“It is common knowledge that Warri is one of Nigeria’s most amazing cities of culture and tradition. For hundreds of years, the three ethnic groups have lived together, traded together, intermarried, spoken each other’s languages and built a unique and awe-inspiring heritage,” the statement added.

The group further urged youths in Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North Local Government Areas not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of division or conflict.

“PANDEF calls on our sons and daughters of Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North to appreciate the fact that they are the custodians of tomorrow and must not allow themselves to be used as tools of division or destruction.

“The rich future which the Warri dream holds will only exist if there is peace today. All must stand up for unity, reject inciting voices on social media and protect the legacy of this great area,” it stated.

Reaffirming its commitment to peacebuilding, PANDEF pledged to continue implementing confidence-building measures across communities to rebuild trust and strengthen unity.

The forum also expressed its readiness to support initiatives aimed at promoting justice, fairness and sustainable development across the Warri area and the wider Niger Delta region.

“Consistent with its mandate, PANDEF will continue to play its role in peacemaking and peacebuilding. We will continue to undertake various confidence-building measures across communities to rebuild trust and reinforce unity.

“Furthermore, we pledge our full support to any initiative that promotes justice, fairness and development for the area and all its people,” the statement added.

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