“‘Our Blood Is Not Cheap!’ — Warri on the Brink as Ijaw Stakeholders Accuse Agbateyiniro Weyinmi of Fueling Ethnic Crisis with Public Funds”
By Passman Akpos
A fresh wave of tension is building in Warri South Local Government Area following a strongly worded press statement issued by concerned Ijaw stakeholders, warning of looming crisis over what they describe as “dangerous and divisive governance.”
In the statement released on Sunday, the group called on the Delta State Government, led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, to urgently intervene and investigate the activities of Warri South LGA Chairman, Agbateyiniro Weyinmi.
The stakeholders alleged that funds meant for development in the council are being diverted to sponsor intimidation, deepen ethnic divisions, and provoke confrontation in the multi-ethnic area. They warned that such actions could destabilize the already fragile peace in Warri if left unchecked.
Of particular concern, according to the statement, are claims that the council chairman is operating under external traditional influence, notably from the Olu of Itsekiri, in a manner that compromises neutrality in governance and fuels ethnic tension.
The group cited recent incidents they say reflect a troubling pattern, including a violent clash in Odion, an Urhobo community, where a life was reportedly lost, and the growing controversy surrounding the historic Ogbe-Ijoh Market, now at the center of disputes among ethnic groups.
“These developments are not isolated. They form a pattern capable of plunging Warri into avoidable crisis,” the statement read.
While reaffirming that the Ijaw people are not at war with any ethnic group, including the Itsekiri and Urhobo, the stakeholders insisted they would not remain silent in the face of actions that threaten their safety and historical identity.
The group issued a series of demands, including an immediate probe into the use of local government funds, a halt to all actions capable of inciting unrest, protection for all communities, and the establishment of a neutral peace-building framework involving all ethnic nationalities in the area.
They urged Governor Oborevwori to act swiftly, warning that “peace cannot exist where there is injustice, provocation, and abuse of office.”
“Warri must not be allowed to descend into crisis due to political manipulation or ethnic favoritism,” the statement added.
The press release concluded with a strong message that while the Ijaw people remain committed to peaceful coexistence, such peace must be anchored on justice, fairness, and respect for all groups.
As tensions simmer, residents and observers are now watching closely to see how the state government responds to the growing calls for intervention in one of Delta State’s most sensitive and diverse regions.
