Itsekiri Historical Front Backs Warri State Creation, Advocates Inclusion in Southwest Region Instead of South-South

Members of the Itsekiri Historical Front have united in support of the proposal for the creation of Warri State, urging the House of Representatives to recognize this crucial step in their long-standing quest for autonomy. For over 33 years, the Itsekiri people have laboured tirelessly in pursuit of their own state, a dream that is deeply rooted in their history and identity.

We firmly propose that the envisioned Warri State be incorporated into the Southwest region rather than being categorized under the South-South. This recommendation stems from our strong historical and cultural ties with our larger Yoruba family. The Itsekiri language is classified as Yoruboid. It is imperative to note that Warri is an integral part of the broader Yoruba territories.

Historically, Warri (Iwere) functioned as a sovereign state for an impressive 400 years, with the Olu of Warri serving as its revered ruler long before the amalgamation of Nigeria. However, since joining this nation, we have witnessed the erosion of our rights, lands, and freedoms. The Nigerian state has failed consistently to safeguard our territories against encroachments and invasions. The situation deteriorated significantly with the formation of Delta State, a region in which the Itsekiri people have found themselves marginalized and subjected to ongoing turmoil, experiencing a lack of peace for even a single year.

From the period of 1480 to 1898, Warri (Iwere) thrived as a sovereign kingdom that engaged in alliances and trade with various foreign nations, including Portugal, Spain, Brazil, São Tomé and Príncipe, the Netherlands, France, Italy, Germany, Britain, and Angola. For more than four centuries, Warri was acknowledged as an economic powerhouse in the Niger Delta. Even today, the Warri Kingdom remains a significant contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas production, accounting for approximately 33% of the nation’s outputs from this vital sector.

The establishment of Warri State would not only address the systemic marginalization and ethnic discrimination faced by the Itsekiri people within Delta State but would also pave the way for much-needed peace and stability in the Niger Delta region. The Warri Kingdom continues to play a pivotal role in supporting the Nigerian economy through its substantial contributions to oil and gas.

Historical records and ancient maps dating from 1587 to 1898 clearly demonstrate that the territories of the Itsekiri people include Warri South, Warri Southwest, and Warri North, extending beyond these boundaries. Collectively, these three Local Government Areas encompass a land mass exceeding that of Lagos State, thereby showcasing their potential to function independently as a state.

Furthermore, we assert that Itsekiri communities residing in Edo State, specifically in the Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, should be included in the proposed Warri State. These communities lie at the intersection of Warri North and Edo State and have faced ongoing marginalization and oppression from the Edo State government. Their inclusion in Warri State is both logical and justifiable, as they are itsekiri’s.

In light of our unwavering support for this proposal, we respectfully call upon the planning committee that will be constituted to consider our plea to shift the designation of Warri State from the South-South to the Southwest region. This adjustment is vital in acknowledging our historical roots and cultural affiliations while fostering a brighter future for the Itsekiri people.

Signed

Comr. Lily-white O. Esigbone
Chairman

Mr. Silva Samuel Maku
Secretary

Mr. Oritsegbubemi Adrian Edema
Project Co-ordinator

Mr Oritseweyiologbara kwame Woode
PRO