Renowned Niger Delta leader and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), has appealed for calm and restraint among communities in Warri Federal Constituency amid the ongoing protests over the ward delineation exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Tompolo made the appeal in a statement issued on Tuesday following the mass action by women and youths from various communities who have occupied oil and gas installations in the Escravos and Warri River areas in protest against issues surrounding the ward delineation process.
The Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation acknowledged growing concerns among stakeholders and noted that many patriotic Nigerians had continued to call for a peaceful resolution of the impasse. He said he fully aligns with such calls and urged all parties to embrace dialogue rather than confrontation.
According to him, the Ijaw people have historically been known for their peaceful disposition and should not allow the current political situation arising from what he described as INEC’s failure to complete the ward delineation process in Warri Federal Constituency to degenerate into violence.
“The current political situation and the ongoing mass action must not be allowed to be hijacked or escalate into any form of violence,” he stated, while urging protesters and community members to remain law-abiding.
Tompolo further called for an immediate meeting of community leaders across the affected areas to chart a common path towards resolving the crisis and restoring normalcy.
He stressed the need for collective efforts in pursuing peace and maintaining stability in the region.
He also urged INEC to take the necessary steps to address the concerns raised by stakeholders and ensure that justice and fairness prevail in the ward delineation process.
The Niger Delta leader appealed to all residents of Warri, irrespective of ethnic affiliation, including Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities, to remain calm and patient while awaiting the Commission’s actions.
Tompolo emphasized that sustainable peace remains essential for the continued development and stability of the area, expressing confidence that constructive engagement among stakeholders would lead to an amicable resolution of the dispute.
The statement comes amid heightened tensions in parts of Warri Federal Constituency, where community groups have continued to press demands relating to the implementation of the ward delineation exercise.
