Warri delineation: Itsekiri faults Ijaw, Urhobo interpretation of Tinubu’s intervention

By Egufe Yafugborhi & Ochuko Akuopha

ASABA —The Itsekiri ethnic nationality has faulted what it called “misleading interpretations” by Ijaw and Urhobo groups of President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in lingering differences over Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, ward delineation in Warri federal constituency, Delta State.

In a statement, yesterday by A. Mene, Secretary, Itsekiri Leaders of Thought and delegate to the presidential truce meeting, the group said recent public messaging by some Ijaw and Urhobo groups misrepresents what transpired.

Mene said: “Recent news advertorials and public statements issued by certain Ijaw and Urhobo groups do not accurately reflect the spirit and outcomes of the engagements convened by the President.”

President Tinubu hosted representatives of the Ijaws, Itsekiris and Urhobos of Warri on June 11, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, alongside Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State.

The meeting focused on the peaceful resolution of issues arising from INEC’s ward delineation exercise and related concerns in Warri federal constituency.

According to Mene, “Contrary to certain public claims, the President did not make any pronouncement altering the judicially recognised status of any local government area.

“Rather, discussions centred on practical pathways towards the peaceful implementation of lawful decisions and the management of concerns raised by stakeholders.”

Following the Villa meeting, Mene noted: President Tinubu directed further engagement under the National Security Adviser, NSA, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.

“Pursuant to that, Itsekiri and Ijaw representatives met on June 12, 2026, at the NSA’s office, with Mallam Ribadu and DSS Director-General Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi in attendance.

“Proposals on representation and power-sharing for the proposed Warri Federal Constituency II were discussed, with outcomes subject to further consultations and constitutional processes.

“The President consistently urged all parties to pursue dialogue and consensus and cautioned against actions capable of undermining peace or frustrating efforts towards an amicable resolution.

“The Itsekiri Nation rejects attempts by any group to present contested interpretations or ongoing discussions as settled outcomes of the presidential intervention.

“Such representations neither advance peace nor reflect the spirit in which the engagements were convened.

“The Itsekiri Nation remains committed to peaceful dialogue, respect for the rule of law, and constructive engagement with all stakeholders.”

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