Brazen Violence: Itsekiri Gunmen, Police Wreck Havoc on Warri Ijaw Youth -Ijaw Leader 

By Osaro Michael, Benin

Ijaw leader, Prof. Benjamin Binebai has strongly condemned the attack on Warri Ijaw youth and destruction of the billboard of the 10th coronation anniversary celebration of the paramount ruler of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom, the Monbene III by Itsekiri youth, aided by suspected police officers on Tuesday.

This was contained in a statement signed by himself which a copy of it was sent to Congress Newspaper on Wednesday Morning.

According to him, “the brazen audacity of Itsekiri gunmen aided by suspected Nigeria Police officers have reached a boiling point, the same Itsekiri caught red-handed in trafficking arms, these mercenaries have once again resorted to threats of violence, leaving a trail of fear and intimidation in their wake. Their actions are a stark reminder of the lawlessness that has taken hold in certain regions, where might seem to make right, and accountability is a distant dream”

His words, “The Ijaw communities, who have long been subjected to blackmail and antagonism by lovers of imperialism , are now faced with the harsh reality of their actions. Every Ijaw high official in government has been targeted by their enemies who use their influence to campaign against the withdrawal of contracts given to Ijaw people. It is a twisted game of cat and mouse, where the rules are dictated by the barrel of a gun, and the innocent are caught in the crossfire.

“The recent brutal shooting and murder of two young Ijaw people in Delta State, warri, has sent shockwaves through the community. The destruction of the Ogbe-Ijoh king celebration banners in Warri, is a blatant affront to the cultural heritage of the Ijaw people. It is a sacrilegious disrespect and violation of ancestral and cultural dignity of the great Ogbe- Ijaw warri King. The perpetrators, emboldened by their actions, seem to be flaunting their disregard for the law, the traditions and the well-being of the people.

“As the authorities grapple with the aftermath of these violent acts, it is imperative that they take decisive action to bring the perpetrators to justice. The people of Ijaw deserve to live without fear of violence and intimidation, and it is the duty of those in power to ensure that their rights are protected. The clock is ticking, and the world is watching.

“The Ijaw-Itsekiri-Urhobo conflict in Warri and over Warri land has taken many lives for generations running, destroyed properties, and constantly led to ethnic hatred, loss of love, progress, and peace amongst the youth world. This situation is caused by disrespect for law, compromise, and bad sense of justice on the part of the powers that be.

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“War and violence pose numerous dangers, including loss of human life, destruction of infrastructure, displacement, psychological trauma, economic devastation, human rights abuses, environmental damage, and long-term consequences. Those who fan the embers of war bring destruction and death to innocent people. War has its hydra-headed dangers, multiplying threats and making it nearly impossible for anyone to stop its devastating consequences once it begins.

“Examples of ethnic wars and their effects can be seen globally. The Rwandan Genocide, for instance, resulted in the loss of over a million lives, while the Bosnian War left deep scars on the Balkan region. The ongoing conflict in Syria has displaced millions and caused immense human suffering. Similarly, the ethnic violence in Myanmar has led to a massive refugee crisis. These examples demonstrate the catastrophic consequences of ethnic conflicts and the urgent need for peaceful resolution.

“The government of Nigeria, Delta State, Warri Federal Constituency, and the ethnic nations that own Warri need peace for economic stability and progress. When conspiracy and falsehood are criminally celebrated beyond the legendary voices of law and justice, violence dances vigorously and lastingly. It’s time for leaders to prioritise peace, justice, and the well-being of their citizens over personal and group interests.

“The resilience of the Ijaw people in the face of such adversity is a testament to their strength and determination. Despite the challenges they face, they remain steadfast in their pursuit of peace and prosperity. As the situation continues to unfold, it is crucial that all stakeholders come together to find a lasting solution based on declared truth and historical justice to the crisis. The future of the Ijaw community, and indeed the entire region, depends on it”, he added.