The leadership of Kantu, also known as Ikantu, in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State has reaffirmed the community’s longstanding cultural and ancestral identity as part of the Ijaw ethnic nationality.
This position was declared during a press briefing held at the Kantu Town Hall on Friday, June 6, 2025.
Addressing journalists, Pa. Edwin Atikan Atemubagha, the Ama-Okosuwei (traditional head) of Kantu, traced the community’s roots to the 11th century.
According to him, the founding ancestor of the community, Oweizibiri, hailed from Oporoza, the traditional headquarters of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State.
“Our history is clear and firmly rooted in the Ijaw tradition. No reinterpretation of facts can change who we are,” he stated.
The leadership acknowledged the existence of cultural and linguistic intersections over the centuries, particularly through intermarriage and proximity to neighbouring ethnic communities.
However, they emphasized that such developments do not negate Kantu’s identity.
“Our people have adopted language for communication and coexistence, but this does not redefine our heritage or bloodline,” said Mr. Windfree Atemubaghan, Chairman of Kantu Community. “We remain Ijaw by origin and by allegiance.”
In their remarks, community leaders underscored the importance of preserving historical truth and promoting peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic groups in the Niger Delta.
They cautioned against any narrative that could potentially disrupt communal harmony or sow discord among ethnic neighbours.
While calling for unity and mutual respect, the Kantu leadership emphasized that their allegiance lies with the Gbaramatu Kingdom under His Royal Majesty, Oboro Gbaraun II, Aketekpe, Agadagba, the Pere of Gbaramatu.
“We are committed to peace and respectful dialogue, but our identity as Ijaw people is not negotiable,” the statement concluded.
The community urged all stakeholders and neighbouring groups to focus on development, cooperation, and peaceful engagement in order to foster a stronger, united Delta region.
