…IYC Demands Apology From Governor
Fresh controversy is brewing in Delta State following a statement credited to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in which he reportedly urged the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic groups in Warri to “wait until 2031” before engaging in any form of communal conflict.
The Governor, while speaking during a public event on Friday in Warri, was quoted as saying:
“To Warri people, if you want to fight, fight after 2031. Don’t fight during my time. What do you want me to say? Do you want me to lose votes?”
The remark, which many view as politically charged, has sparked heated reactions across the state, with critics accusing the governor of prioritizing his political interests ahead of the fragile peace in Warri Federal Constituency.
IYC Condemns Statement
Leading the wave of criticism, the leadership of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Western Zone expressed deep concern and utter dissatisfaction over the governor’s comment, describing it as unbecoming of a Chief Security Officer of the state.
In a strongly worded statement signed by Comrade Nicholas Igarama (Chairman), Ebi Joshua Olowolayemo Esq. (Secretary), and Comrade Tare Magbei (Information Officer), the IYC Western Zone said:
“One of the hallmarks of responsible and visionary leadership is the ability to place the collective interest of the people above personal or partisan considerations. Unfortunately, Governor Sheriff’s recent remarks run contrary to this principle.
His assertion that his votes in the 2027 election are of greater importance than the peace, lives, and properties in Warri Federal Constituency is not only unbecoming of a Chief Security Officer of a State but also an affront to the people of the constituency.”
The group warned that Warri Federal Constituency is already on the edge of a possible relapse into crisis, insisting that the governor’s statement could further inflame tensions.
According to the IYC, instead of making politically motivated comments, Governor Oborevwori should be “convening stakeholders and deploying mechanisms for peacebuilding” to avert unrest in Warri and its environs.
The statement also linked the governor’s posture to recent incidents in the area, including the dismantling of publicity materials of the Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom monarch by agents allegedly acting under the Warri South Local Government Chairman.
“Such reckless acts, left unchecked, are capable of inflaming passions and provoking avoidable unrest,” the IYC warned.
“It is, therefore, not misplaced to describe Governor Sheriff’s posture on the ongoing INEC Ward Delineation Exercise as a dangerous weapon capable of igniting crisis in Warri.
We call on the Governor to immediately retract his unfortunate statement and tender an unreserved apology to all ethnic nationalities in Warri Federal Constituency.”
The IYC further urged the governor to “rise above partisan calculations, embrace his duty as Chief Security Officer of the State, and engage critical stakeholders in dialogue aimed at preserving peace and stability.”
Growing Public Concern
The governor’s comment has triggered debates on social media, with many Delta residents questioning the sensitivity of his remarks at a time when ethnic tensions remain high. Others have called for urgent intervention by community leaders and security agencies to prevent a breakdown of peace.
As of press time, Governor Oborevwori has yet to respond to the backlash or issue a clarification on his statement.
