Warri Federal Constituency Delineation Controversy: Ologbotsere of Warri Hails Itsekiri Unity, Urges Rule of Law Resolution

The Ologbotsere of Warri and Chairman of the Warri Council of Chiefs, Ojoye Engr Dr. Oma Eyewuoma, has commended the Itsekiri people for what he described as their remarkable display of patriotism, unity, and collective resolve in response to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) proposed delineation report for the Warri Federal Constituency. In a statement made available to the press, the respected chief expressed deep appreciation for the manner in which Itsekiris, both at home and across the diaspora, rallied together to interrogate and challenge aspects of the proposal they consider inconsistent with established legal and historical realities.

According to Chief Eyewuoma, the widespread opposition to the delineation proposal was driven not by sentiments but by concerns over what many Itsekiris perceive as irregularities, distortions, and unfair representations contained in the report. He noted that the response from the Itsekiri nation reflected a people determined to defend their rights through lawful and democratic means. For him, the engagement of Itsekiri community leaders, Itsekiri professionals, Itsekiri youth groups, and diaspora stakeholders reflects a shared commitment to justice and equity.

Thus, the Ologbotsere particularly praised the spirit of solidarity that emerged throughout the controversy, describing it as one of the defining moments in recent Itsekiri history. He observed that regardless of geographical location or political affiliation, Itsekiris spoke with a common voice on an issue they believe touches the core of their identity, representation, and future. Such unity, he said, demonstrates the enduring strength of a people bound by a shared heritage and collective purpose.

Chief Eyewuoma emphasized that the interests of the Itsekiri ethnic nationality must remain paramount in matters affecting the destiny of the people. He argued that communities make the greatest progress when they are united around common goals and guided by a clear sense of purpose. The cohesion displayed during the delineation debate, he added, should serve as a model for addressing future challenges confronting the ethnic nationality.

Turning his attention to the Federal Government, the Ologbotsere called for a resolution of the delineation dispute in strict accordance with the rule of law. He stressed the importance of respecting and implementing existing court judgments relating to the matter, as well as other relevant judicial pronouncements. In his view, adherence to legal decisions remains the surest path to lasting peace, stability, and public confidence in democratic institutions. He commended the efforts of the President of Nigeria His Excellency, Ahmed Bola Tinubu but stressed that any decision from the government must be in line with the dictates of the rule of law.

He further maintained that justice must not only be done but must also be seen to be done. The implementation of lawful court decisions, he argued, would reinforce the principles of fairness, equity, and constitutional order that underpin Nigeria’s democracy. For Itsekiri communities affected by the ongoing matter, such actions would help foster trust and reassure citizens that their concerns are being addressed within the framework of the law.

As conversations around the Warri Federal Constituency delineation continue, Chief Eyewuoma reiterated his appeal for sustained unity among Itsekiris. He encouraged the people to remain steadfast, peaceful, and focused on protecting their collective interests through lawful engagement. Concluding on a note of optimism, he expressed confidence that with unity, justice, and respect for due process, the aspirations of the Itsekiri nation would continue to find meaningful expression within a stronger and more inclusive Nigeria.