WARRI, DELTA STATE — The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has commended Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his proactive efforts in promoting peace and stability in the Warri area amid tensions arising from the recent ward delineation exercise.
In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Chief Godknows Boladei Igali, PANDEF praised the governor’s commitment to engaging stakeholders across the three major ethnic nationalities in the area—the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo—to prevent the escalation of disputes and preserve the long-standing harmony that has characterized the region.
The regional socio-political organization noted that Governor Oborevwori had initiated peace-building efforts well before his recent visit to Warri on June 8, 2026, where he met with leaders of the three ethnic groups over emerging disagreements linked to ward delineation. According to PANDEF, the governor had earlier convened similar reconciliation meetings in Asaba as part of ongoing efforts to foster dialogue and understanding among stakeholders.
“PANDEF notes with appreciation the efforts of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to sustain the existing peace and unity in the Warri area through effective engagement with relevant stakeholders over the past months,” the statement read.
The organization stressed that the people of Warri share a rich history and cultural heritage that transcends political disagreements and administrative boundaries. It described Warri as one of Nigeria’s most remarkable centres of culture, commerce, and inter-ethnic coexistence, where generations of Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo people have lived, traded, intermarried, and built enduring relationships.
According to PANDEF, the historical bonds among the three ethnic nationalities remain stronger than any contemporary disputes and should serve as the foundation for resolving current differences peacefully.
The forum also issued a special appeal to youths across Warri South, Warri South-West, and Warri North Local Government Areas, urging them not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of division, violence, or political manipulation.
It warned that the future prosperity and development of the Warri area depend largely on the ability of its people to maintain peace and reject inflammatory rhetoric capable of fueling ethnic tensions.
“All must stand up for unity, reject inciting voices on social media, and protect the legacy of this great area,” PANDEF stated.
The group further reaffirmed its commitment to supporting ongoing peace initiatives and confidence-building measures aimed at strengthening trust among communities and reinforcing regional unity.
PANDEF pledged to continue playing an active role in conflict resolution, peacebuilding, and stakeholder engagement throughout the Niger Delta region, while expressing readiness to support all efforts that promote justice, fairness, and sustainable development for the people of Warri and Delta State as a whole.
The statement comes amid growing concerns over tensions generated by the ward delineation process in parts of Warri, a development that has attracted interventions from political leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and regional organizations seeking to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Observers believe that sustained dialogue and inclusive engagement among all parties will be critical in preserving the peace and stability for which the Warri area has long been known. :::
