Ezekiel Knocks Awani Over Divisive, Derogatory Comments On Warri Federal Constituency Representation

By Joseph Bienbo, Warri

The Warri Federal Constituency Youth O’clock Movement, led by Hon. Comrade Daniel Ezekiel, ADC aspirants of the house of representatives seat of the Warri Federal Constituency has strongly condemned a statement made by Barrister Esimaje Awani, an Itsekiri aspirant for the Warri Federal Constituency House of Representatives seat, describing it as divisive and arrogant.

In a statement, the Youth expressed concern over Awani’s comments at the Delta South senatorial APC meeting on March 7, 2026, where he allegedly claimed it was Warri South’s turn to produce the next representative. The group argued this statement, adding that it ignored the constituency’s multi-ethnic composition, comprising Urhobo, Ijaw (Izon), and Itsekiri groups.

Youth O’clock Agenda emphasised that the House of Representatives seat has been held by Itsekiri individuals since 1999, and it’s time for other ethnic groups to be considered for the position. They called for fairness and inclusivity in the representation of Warri Federal Constituency.

The group urged politicians to prioritize unity and equity in their bid for office.

The statement reads, “Esimaje cannot pretend that he doesn’t know that his fellow Itsekiri from Warri South west and Warri North have been the ones occupying the seat for 27 years now. The present occupier chief Thomas Ereyitomi is also an Itsekitri, so it is deeply insulting to the sensibility of every right thinking human being, especially the Uhrobos and Izons who have not smell the seat for once Esimaje arrogant and polarizing view.
The Urhobo people are also indigenous and prominent in Warri South, just as the Itsekiri people are. Therefore, it raises a legitimate question among many youths and stakeholders: why should the same ethnic group continue to dominate the seat when other groups within the same local government also deserve fair representation?”

“The Youth O’Clock AGENDA therefore believes that justice, fairness, and political balance must guide the 2027 electoral process.
Under the leadership of Comrade Hon. Daniel Ezekiel Perela, the Youth O’Clock Agenda calls on the Urhobo, Itsekiri and Ijaw (Izon) people across Warri South, Warri South West, and Warri North to remain united and resolute in advocating for inclusive representation”.

“Our movement stands for:
Equity and fairness in political representation among all ethnic groups and other stakeholders in a Peaceful democratic engagement without ethnic hostility,
Youth participation in leadership and governance Sustainable development for the entire Warri Federal Constituency”.

“We emphasize that this call is not about division but about justice and balance. Democracy must give every group a sense of belonging.
The 2027 election presents an opportunity to correct long-standing political imbalance and strengthen unity in Warri Federal Constituency”.

“The Youth O’Clock AGENDA hold Itsekiri nation,our brothers and sisters from that glorious ethnic group in high esteem, therefore urges all stakeholders to promote fairness, respect diversity, and ensure that political power rotates in a manner that reflects the true composition of our constituency.
Warri belongs to Urhobo, Ijaw (Izon), Itsekiri, and every community within the constituency. The future must be built on equity, unity, and mutual respect”