NSA Convenes Emergency Meeting to Address Rising Ethnic Tensions in Warri

By Monday Peters, Abuja

Following the rising tensions among Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri in Warri, Delta State, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, held an urgent meeting with representatives from the three ethnic groups in Abuja on Monday. The meeting, which began shortly after noon, aimed to promote dialogue and peace in the conflict-prone Warri metropolis.

Congress gathered that only nine leaders from the Ijaw, Urhobo, and Itsekiri tribes were permitted entry to the meeting, amidst reports of a lighthearted incident involving Chief Ayiri Emami, whose phone was confiscated after he attempted to record the proceedings, a breach of the meeting’s rules. The incident raised eyebrows, particularly as Emami had reportedly tried to claim a connection with Chief Boro Opudu, only to be met with a swift rebuttal- according to sources.

The meeting was convened against a backdrop of concerns regarding ethnic harmony, with the NSA emphasising the importance of maintaining order. In his opening remarks, Ribadu underscored the reasons for the gathering:

“1. The meeting was prompted by the rising ethnic tensions in Warri.
“2. He clarified that the discussion would not include topics related to the Supreme Court judgment, which he described as a settled constitutional matter.
“3. Land disputes were also deemed outside the scope of the discussions.
“4. Ribadu affirmed the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and its adherence to Supreme Court directives.
“5. He reiterated the President’s commitment to ensuring peace among all ethnic groups and urged community leaders to advocate for calm among their constituents”, according to sources.

The NSA concluded the meeting with a stark warning: any group that disturbs the peace would face the full might of the security agencies.

However, the meeting was a significant step taken by the government to mitigate potential unrest in Warri.

According to APC stalwart, Amb Coleman Timi, the NSA’s appointment was a strategic choice by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he navigates the complex dynamics at play in the Warri. As communal narratives evolve, leaders of the Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri have been urged to prioritize peace and stability.

However, concerns about misinformation and sensationalized narratives have been raised, where Timi urged stakeholders to disregard misleading reports regarding events from the meeting and alleged incidents, particularly regarding the destruction of land documentation.

Meantime, the security situation in Warri remains under close surveillance as authorities remain vigilant to prevent any escalation of conflict.