Ethnic Tensions Rise Over Ward Delineation in Warri

In Warri, Delta State, the Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Urhobo ethnic groups are protesting the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) recent ward delineation proposal, which follows a court judgment. The proposal affects the Warri South, Warri South West, and Warri North local government areas.

The ethnic groups commend INEC for taking a bold step to address long-standing injustices but threaten severe actions, including shutting down 13 oil wells operated by Chevron, Shell, Nestoil, and Necond, which produce 400,000 barrels of crude oil daily. They insist that the delineation exercise is necessary for ensuring fair political representation.

Mr. Maria Ebik, a leader among the protesters, accused INEC of deliberately delaying the implementation of the final report despite consultations aimed at addressing political representation concerns.

The situation has escalated tensions in the oil-rich region, with fears of a communal crisis as the Delta State government urges peace among the ethnic groups.