Scores Injured in Warri Ethnic Clash, Oborevwori Calls for Restraint

Scores Injured in Warri Ethnic Clash, Oborevwori Calls for Restraint Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has appealed for calm and restraint following a violent clash between Itsekiri and Urhobo youths in Warri South Local Government Area of the state that left several people injured.

The fracas, which broke out simultaneously at the Ibo Market/Okere Road axis and at Okere Market on Tuesday evening, was reportedly triggered by renewed disputes over territorial ownership between the two ethnic groups.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori,

Eyewitnesses said the fighting, which began around 5:30 p.m., saw the use of dangerous weapons including cutlasses, clubs, and firearms. Shops and businesses were hastily shut, while residents locked themselves indoors as police operatives and soldiers struggled to restore order.

Socio-economic activities in the bustling commercial hub were brought to a standstill as security agencies battled to disperse the warring youths and prevent escalation.

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Reacting in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori condemned the violence and called on community leaders and youth groups to shun further hostilities.

“We appeal to all stakeholders to support our efforts in revitalising infrastructure in Warri and avoid all acts capable of truncating the current peace in the oil-rich city,” the governor said.

He stressed that his administration was committed to inclusive governance and equitable development across Delta State, adding that peace remained crucial to unlocking Warri’s vast economic potential.

The governor also assured residents that adequate security personnel had been deployed to the troubled areas to maintain peace and order.

Oborevwori further urged opinion leaders, traditional rulers, and community representatives to work together in fostering unity and mutual understanding among the various ethnic groups in Warri, reiterating that only through dialogue and coexistence could the city’s development be sustained.