By Fatima Saka
Warri, Delta State — Senator Ede Dafinone, representing Delta Central Senatorial District, has appealed for calm and immediate federal intervention following reports of renewed tensions between the Itsekiri and Urhobo communities in Warri South Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Senator Dafinone expressed deep concern over the crisis, condemning the violence and urging all parties to embrace dialogue and peace. He called on the Federal Government and security agencies to act swiftly to de-escalate the situation and protect all communities in the region.
“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,” Dafinone said. “I appeal to both sides to embrace dialogue and peace, as peace remains priceless and irreplaceable. Violence can only bring pain, destruction, and setbacks to our communities.”
Dafinone condemned reports of attacks on the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU) House in Okere-Urhobo, which left some youths injured, describing the incident as “deeply regrettable.”
He stressed that the UPU represents the heritage and identity of the Urhobo people worldwide, noting that “an attack on the UPU is, by extension, an attack on the entire Urhobo Nation.”
The senator urged security agencies to remain neutral, fair, and proactive in their response while prioritizing trust-building and reconciliation to prevent further unrest.
READ ALSO: Warri Tensions: Senator Dafinone Urges Dialogue, Calls for Swift Federal Action
He also called for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to complete the Supreme Court-ordered delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency to address long-standing grievances.
“Together, we can sustain the bonds of brotherhood and build a future anchored on justice and harmony,” Dafinone said, urging traditional leaders, elders, youth groups, and political actors to work collectively towards peace.
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