PANDEF Applauds Oborevwori Over Stakeholders Meeting On Warri Delineation Dispute

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has lauded the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his proactive and sustained efforts toward preserving peace and fostering unity in the Warri area amid growing tensions arising from recent ward delineation exercises.

In a statement issued on June 9, 2026, and signed by its National Chairman, Chief Godknows Boladei Igali, PANDEF acknowledged the governor’s commitment to dialogue and stakeholder engagement as a means of preventing conflict and strengthening harmony among the people of Warri.

The regional socio-political body noted with appreciation that Governor Oborevwori had, over the past several months, consistently engaged critical stakeholders in efforts to maintain peace in the area.

According to PANDEF, the governor’s intervention was not limited to his recent visit to Warri on June 8, 2026, where he met with leaders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities over emerging concerns linked to ward delineations.

The forum emphasized that he had earlier initiated similar peace-building meetings in Asaba, demonstrating foresight and a genuine commitment to conflict prevention.

PANDEF reminded leaders and residents of the Warri area of the deep historical, cultural, and social ties that have united the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo people for centuries.

The forum stressed that these longstanding bonds transcend political disagreements and administrative boundaries, urging all parties to prioritize the collective interests of the region over divisive tendencies.

Describing Warri as one of Nigeria’s most remarkable centres of culture, commerce, and tradition, PANDEF highlighted the unique history of coexistence among the area’s ethnic groups.

The statement noted that for generations, the people of Warri have lived together peacefully, engaged in trade, intermarried, shared languages, and built a common heritage that remains a model of communal harmony.

The forum stated that the Warri story reflects the enduring African philosophy that lasting progress can only be achieved through unity and cooperation.

The forum maintained that the rich cultural heritage of the area is far more significant and enduring than any political disagreements or boundary-related disputes.

Addressing the youth of Warri South, Warri South-West, and Warri North Local Government Areas, PANDEF issued a passionate appeal for restraint and responsible conduct. It urged young people across the region not to allow themselves to be manipulated into acts capable of undermining peace and development.

According to the organization, the future prosperity of Warri depends largely on the ability of its people to maintain peace today. It therefore called on youths to reject divisive narratives, resist inflammatory rhetoric on social media, and actively contribute to safeguarding the legacy and unity of the area.

PANDEF further reaffirmed its commitment to peace-making and conflict resolution across the Niger Delta region. The body pledged to continue implementing confidence-building initiatives aimed at rebuilding trust among communities and reinforcing the spirit of coexistence that has long defined Warri.

The forum also assured residents and stakeholders of its support for all efforts and policies that promote justice, fairness, equity, and sustainable development in the region. It emphasized that genuine peace can only thrive where all communities feel fairly treated and adequately represented.

While commending Governor Oborevwori for his leadership and commitment to dialogue, PANDEF called on traditional rulers, political leaders, community stakeholders, youth groups, and residents to support ongoing peace initiatives and work collectively toward preserving the stability of Warri and its surrounding communities.

The organization concluded by expressing optimism that through continued engagement, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to peaceful coexistence, Warri would overcome its current challenges and remain a shining example of unity and cultural diversity in the Niger Delta and Nigeria as a whole.

~ Hot News Reporters
Thursday, 11, June, 2026