Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Senator Ede Dafinone, has appealed to the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to act swiftly in de-escalating the fresh crisis between the Itsekiris and Urhobos in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
In a statement to newsmen on Tuesday, the senator said urgent intervention has become necessary to curtail the situation and ensure the safety of all communities.
Senator Dafinone expressed deep concern that such unrest is happening at a critical time, urging all parties to exercise restraint and avoid any actions that could escalate the violence.
The lawmaker recalled that the Urhobo and Itsekiri communities are neighbors who have coexisted as brothers for decades, sharing cultural, social, and economic ties that must not be destroyed by avoidable conflicts.
He, however, appealed to both sides to embrace dialogue and peace, stressing that peace remains priceless and irreplaceable.
The lawmaker further argued that violence can only bring pain, destruction, and setbacks to both communities.
He also expressed serious concern over recent reports of attacks on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) House at Okere-Urhobo, which left some Urhobo youths injured.
He described such acts as deeply regrettable, noting that the UPU represents the heritage and identity of the Urhobo people worldwide.
Senator Dafinone believes that an attack on the UPU is, by extension, an attack on the entire Urhobo Nation, urging the authorities to investigate these incidents thoroughly and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
He emphasized that maintaining peace and security is important and that security agencies should remain neutral, fair, and proactive, in order to prevent escalation.
On the other hand, he said the Urhobos of Warri, like all citizens, deserve protection from the Nigerian state, stressing that security measures must always prioritize dialogue, trust-building, and reconciliation, as these are the surest safeguards against a recurrence of conflict.
Senator Dafinone called on all stakeholders traditional leaders, community elders, youth groups, and political actors to join hands in fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect.
He further emphasized the importance of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) completing the Supreme Court-ordered delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency, noting that it would help address longstanding grievances and lay a stronger foundation for peaceful coexistence.
According to him, “Together, we can sustain the bonds of brotherhood and build a future anchored on justice and harmony.”
Bashir M
