Tensions flared in Warri, Delta State, after INEC’s delineation of constituencies left Itsekiris feeling politically sidelined. One person was killed and homes were burned as violence erupted. Security forces have been deployed, while ethnic groups brace for further unrest over the controversial political realignment.
Tension escalated in Warri, Delta State, on Sunday night following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) recent delineation of the Warri Federal Constituency. Violence erupted in the Odion Road area of Warri South Local Government Area, leading to the death of one individual and the destruction of multiple houses by suspected hoodlums.
Security forces, including the Nigerian Army and police, have since been deployed to maintain order and prevent further unrest. The violence reportedly stems from dissatisfaction among Itsekiri youths, who believe they were politically marginalized in the new arrangement.
The redrawn constituency lines, which follow a Supreme Court directive, appear to favor the Urhobo and Ijaw ethnic groups. This perceived imbalance has ignited ethnic tension, particularly among the Itsekiris, who argue that the delineation weakens their political influence in Warri.
Prominent Itsekiri figure, Chief Eyewuoma, condemned the development and announced plans to challenge the outcome through legal channels. Meanwhile, fear of retaliatory violence looms as the slain individual is reportedly an Ijaw man, raising the risk of further ethnic clashes.
Last Friday, INEC presented its delineation report to representatives of the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw groups in Asaba. The presentation was made by Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sir Etekamba Udo Umoren, and received on behalf of each group by their appointed leaders.
