On August 26, 2025, Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, issued a heartfelt plea for calm in response to reports of a fresh crisis between the Itsekiri and Urhobo communities in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State. The senator’s statement comes at a time of heightened tension, with reports of violent clashes, including an attack on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) House in Okere-Urhobo, which resulted in injuries to several Urhobo youths. Senator Dafinone’s call for restraint, dialogue, and swift intervention by security agencies underscores the urgency of de-escalating the conflict and fostering lasting peace in the region.
A Call for Restraint and Unity
In his statement, Senator Dafinone expressed deep concern over the resurgence of conflict between the Itsekiri and Urhobo communities, two ethnic groups with a long history of coexistence in Warri. The senator emphasized the need for all parties to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could further inflame tensions. “I received with deep concern the reports of fresh crisis between the Itsekiris and Urhobos in Warri South Local Government Area,” he stated. “At this critical time, I appeal to all parties to exercise restraint and shun any acts of violence.”
The senator’s appeal is rooted in the recognition of the deep cultural, social, and economic ties that have historically bound the Itsekiri and Urhobo communities. For decades, these two groups have lived side by side, sharing resources, traditions, and aspirations in the oil-rich city of Warri. The city, often described as the economic heartbeat of Delta State, has long been a melting pot of diverse ethnic groups, with the Itsekiri and Urhobo playing significant roles in its development. However, periodic disputes, often fueled by issues of land ownership, political representation, and resource allocation, have strained relations between the two communities.
Senator Dafinone’s call for peace is not merely a reaction to the current crisis but a reminder of the shared heritage and mutual dependence that define the relationship between the Itsekiri and Urhobo. “The Urhobos and our Itsekiri neighbours have coexisted as brothers for decades, sharing cultural, social, and economic ties that must not be destroyed by avoidable conflicts,” he said. By invoking the imagery of brotherhood, the senator seeks to appeal to the collective conscience of both communities, urging them to prioritize dialogue over violence.
The Attack on UPU House: A Cause for Concern
One of the most troubling aspects of the recent crisis is the reported attack on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) House in Okere-Urhobo, a symbolic and cultural landmark for the Urhobo people. According to reports, the attack resulted in injuries to several Urhobo youths, sparking outrage among community members. The UPU, as the apex socio-cultural organization of the Urhobo people, represents the collective identity, heritage, and aspirations of the Urhobo nation, not only in Delta State but across Nigeria and in the diaspora.
Senator Dafinone described the attack as “deeply regrettable,” noting that it constitutes an assault on the very essence of Urhobo identity. “An attack on the UPU is, by extension, an attack on the entire Urhobo Nation,” he stated. The senator’s strong words reflect the gravity of the incident and its potential to escalate tensions if not addressed promptly and decisively. He called on the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. “I urge the authorities to investigate these incidents thoroughly and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” he said.
The attack on the UPU House is particularly significant given the organization’s role in promoting unity and development among the Urhobo people. Established decades ago, the UPU has been a voice for the Urhobo nation, advocating for their rights, cultural preservation, and socio-economic advancement. An attack on such an institution is not only a physical assault but also a symbolic affront to the pride and unity of the Urhobo people. The senator’s condemnation of the incident underscores the need for justice to restore trust and prevent further acts of retribution.
The Role of Security Agencies
In addressing the crisis, Senator Dafinone emphasized the critical role of security agencies in maintaining peace and preventing further escalation. He called on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to act swiftly in de-escalating the situation and ensuring the safety of all communities. “I further call on the Federal Government and relevant security agencies to act swiftly in de-escalating the situation and ensuring the safety of all communities,” he stated.
The senator stressed the importance of neutrality, fairness, and proactivity in the response of security agencies. In a region with a history of ethnic tensions, the impartiality of security forces is essential to building trust among communities. Past conflicts in Warri have sometimes been exacerbated by perceptions of bias or inaction on the part of security agencies, leading to accusations of favoritism or neglect. Senator Dafinone’s call for neutrality is a reminder that security measures must be applied equitably to all parties involved.
Moreover, the senator advocated for a proactive approach that prioritizes dialogue, trust-building, and reconciliation. “Security measures must always prioritize dialogue, trust-building, and reconciliation, as these are the surest safeguards against a recurrence of conflict,” he said. This approach reflects a recognition that military or police intervention alone cannot resolve deep-seated communal disputes. Sustainable peace requires addressing the root causes of conflict, including issues of resource control, political representation, and historical grievances.
The Need for Dialogue and Reconciliation
At the heart of Senator Dafinone’s statement is a call for dialogue as the most effective means of resolving the crisis. He urged both the Itsekiri and Urhobo communities to embrace peaceful negotiations and avoid resorting to violence. “I appeal to both sides to embrace dialogue and peace, as peace remains priceless and irreplaceable,” he said. “Violence can only bring pain, destruction, and setbacks to our communities.”
The emphasis on dialogue is particularly relevant in the context of Warri, where ethnic tensions have often been fueled by competing claims to land, political power, and economic resources. The city’s strategic importance as a hub for Nigeria’s oil and gas industry has made it a focal point for disputes over resource allocation and political representation. These disputes have, at times, led to violent clashes, displacing communities and disrupting economic activities.
Senator Dafinone’s advocacy for dialogue aligns with broader efforts to promote peacebuilding in the Niger Delta region. Over the years, various initiatives, including government-led peace processes and community-based reconciliation efforts, have sought to address the underlying causes of conflict in the region. However, the recurrence of violence underscores the need for sustained and inclusive dialogue that involves all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, community elders, youth groups, and political actors.
The senator’s call for unity among stakeholders reflects an understanding that peacebuilding is a collective responsibility. “I call on all stakeholders; traditional leaders, community elders, youth groups, and political actors, to join hands in fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect,” he said syouth groups, and political actors, to join hands in fostering unity, peace, and mutual respect,” he said. By engaging these key figures, Senator Dafinone hopes to leverage their influence to promote reconciliation and prevent further violence.
The Role of INEC and the Delineation Exercise
A significant aspect of Senator Dafinone’s statement is his reference to the Supreme Court-ordered delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency. The delineation of electoral wards in Warri has been a contentious issue, with disputes over the allocation of political representation between the Itsekiri, Urhobo, and other ethnic groups in the area. The senator noted that the completion of this exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could help address longstanding grievances and lay a stronger foundation for peaceful coexistence.
The delineation exercise is intended to ensure equitable representation in the Warri Federal Constituency, which comprises multiple ethnic groups with competing interests. Delays and disputes over the delineation process have fueled perceptions of marginalization among some communities, contributing to tensions in the region. By urging INEC to conclude the exercise, Senator Dafinone underscores the importance of addressing structural issues that underlie communal conflicts.
The delineation issue is emblematic of broader challenges in the Niger Delta, where access to political power and economic resources is often a source of contention. The senator’s call for INEC to act swiftly reflects a recognition that resolving these structural issues is essential to building a sustainable framework for peace.
Historical Context: The Warri Crisis in Perspective
To fully appreciate the significance of Senator Dafinone’s statement, it is important to situate the current crisis within the broader historical context of Warri. The city has a long history of ethnic tensions, particularly between the Itsekiri, Urhobo, and Ijaw communities. These tensions, often referred to as the “Warri Crisis,” have their roots in colonial-era policies that created administrative boundaries without regard for ethnic diversity, as well as post-independence struggles over resource control and political representation.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Warri was the epicenter of violent clashes that claimed numerous lives, displaced thousands, and disrupted oil production in the region. The conflicts were driven by disputes over land ownership, oil revenue allocation, and political representation, with each ethnic group asserting its rights to the city’s resources and governance structures. While peace agreements and government interventions have helped stabilize the region, underlying grievances have persisted, occasionally resurfacing in the form of communal clashes.
Senator Dafinone’s reference to the “bonds of brotherhood” between the Itsekiri and Urhobo reflects an acknowledgment of the shared history and interdependence of these communities. However, it also serves as a reminder that these bonds are fragile and require deliberate efforts to sustain. The senator’s statement is a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize unity and reconciliation over division and conflict.
The Path Forward: Building a Future of Justice and Harmony
In his concluding remarks, Senator Dafinone reiterated his vision for a future anchored on justice and harmony. “Together, we can sustain the bonds of brotherhood and build a future anchored on justice and harmony,” he said. This vision reflects a commitment to addressing both the immediate triggers of the current crisis and the deeper structural issues that perpetuate conflict in Warri.
Achieving this vision will require concerted efforts from multiple stakeholders. Traditional leaders, who command significant influence in their communities, have a critical role to play in promoting peace and mediating disputes. Community elders can provide wisdom and historical perspective to guide reconciliation efforts. Youth groups, often at the forefront of communal clashes, must be engaged in constructive dialogue to channel their energies toward positive outcomes. Political actors, including elected officials like Senator Dafinone, have a responsibility to advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusivity.
Moreover, the role of civil society organizations, religious institutions, and the media cannot be overstated. These groups can amplify calls for peace, facilitate dialogue, and hold authorities accountable for implementing measures to prevent future conflicts. The involvement of women, who are often disproportionately affected by communal violence, is also critical to ensuring that peacebuilding efforts are inclusive and sustainable.
Conclusion
Senator Ede Dafinone’s statement on the Warri crisis is a timely and principled call for peace, unity, and dialogue in a region with a complex history of ethnic tensions. By urging restraint, condemning the attack on the UPU House, and advocating for swift action by security agencies and INEC, the senator has demonstrated a commitment to addressing both the immediate and underlying causes of the conflict. His emphasis on dialogue, neutrality, and reconciliation reflects a deep understanding of the challenges facing Warri and the broader Niger Delta region.
As the people of Warri South Local Government Area navigate this latest crisis, Senator Dafinone’s message serves as a reminder of the power of unity and the importance of collective action. By working together, the Itsekiri, Urhobo, and other communities in Warri can overcome the challenges of the present and build a future defined by justice, harmony, and mutual respect. The senator’s call for calm is not just a plea for peace but a roadmap for sustainable coexistence in one of Nigeria’s most dynamic and diverse regions.
