Ijaw Leader, Mamamu Condemns Destruction of 10th Coronation Banners of Mobene III, Warns Itsekiri, Police 

By Osaro Michael, Benin

Prominent Niger Delta activist Comrade Bene Youkore Mamamu who doubled as the National President of the Niger Delta Youth Council, has warned Itsekiri and Nigeria Police against further move to provoke Ijaws in Warri into another bloody crisis, stating that the removal of the Pere Of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom, Mobene III 10th coronation anniversary Banners Placed Around Warri is Provocative, inciting and condemnable, acting that the criminal act aided by suspected police officers could incite another bloody crisis in Warri.

The Niger Delta leader, Bene Mamamu in a statement on Tuesday condemned the Itsekiri’s action, stating that the moves to truncate the celebration of the 10th coronation anniversary of the HRM King Couple Mackson Oromoni, Mobene III, the Monarch of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom will be resisted and met with commensurate action.

He further described the act as a blatant disrespect to the traditional institution and a provocation that could lead to further unrest. “This is not just an attack on the banners; it is an attack on our culture, our heritage, and our identity as a people,” he stated. “We will not stand by and allow such acts of attack to go unchallenged.”

The activist called on the National Security Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, Malam Nuhu Ribadu as well as security operatives across the country, to take immediate notice of the situation. He emphasised that the alleged actions of the Itsekiri people, who are reportedly behind the removal of the banners, could be interpreted as a declaration of war against the Ogbe-Ijoh People in Warri Kingdom, Delta State.

“This is a critical moment for peace and unity in the Niger Delta,” Mamamu warned. “We urge all parties involved to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue rather than resorting to violence. The youth of the Niger Delta are tired of conflict; we want development, peace, and a future where our voices are heard.”

The banners, which were prominently displayed in various locations around Warri, were intended to commemorate a decade of leadership under Monbene III, who has been a pivotal figure in promoting peace and development in the region. The removal of these banners has not only angered the Ijaws but has also drawn the attention of the whole world.

“Again, an illustrious son of the Ijaw nation was shot by suspected Itsekiri youths, this is barbaric and provocative, if proper action is not taken we may seek self-help. The governor of Delta State, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori and the police commissioner of the state should outrightly condemn this criminal act and make appropriate punishment for the persons and police officers involved to douse the rising tension in Warri”, he added.