Ijaw Women Urge Oborevwori to Address Political Imbalance in Warri North, Demand Appointment of Ijaw Commissioner

By Monday Peters, Abuja

A group under the umbrella of the Ijaw Women Rights’ Protection Forum, IWRPF, has expressed concern over the political appointments of two Itsekiri Commissioners in Warri North Local Government Area, Delta State, calling for balanced representation.

In a statement, they noted that two commissioners appointed from Warri North are from the Itsekiri ethnic group, with no corresponding appointment from the Ijaw ethnic group.

The group acknowledged the Governor’s constitutional power to make appointments but emphasised the need for fairness and inclusivity. They pointed out the Ijaw people’s significant contributions to Delta State’s political, economic, and social structure, stressing that equity is a principle of justice, not a privilege.

The president of the group, Comrade Hilda Amogha urged the Governor to appoint a qualified Ijaw son or daughter from Warri North as Commissioner, citing benefits to unity, stability, peace, security and trust in his administration. They warned that balanced representation is key to preventing marginalization and promoting peaceful coexistence.

The appeal emphasised that Delta State’s strength lies in respecting and valuing all ethnic groups, calling on the Governor to act in the interest of justice, peace and fairness.

The statement reads, “We write with deep concern regarding the recent political appointments in Warri North Local Government Area.
Warri North is home to two major ethnic nationalities, the Itsekiri and the Ijaw. While we acknowledge and respect your constitutional power to appoint commissioners, it is important to highlight that two commissioners have been appointed from the Itsekiri ethnic group in Warri North, with no corresponding appointment from the Ijaw ethnic group.
This development raises serious concerns about fairness, balance, and inclusive governance.

“The Ijaw people of Warri North are significant stakeholders in the political, economic, and social structure of Delta State. They deserve equal representation in government appointments. Equity is not a privilege, it is a principle of justice and peaceful coexistence.

“We therefore strongly call on Your Excellency to urgently consider the appointment of a qualified and competent Ijaw son or daughter from Warri North as Commissioner. Such an action will Promote unity and stability Strengthen trust in your administration reinforce fairness and inclusive governance Prevent feelings of marginalization Delta State thrives when all ethnic groups feel respected, included, and valued. Balanced representation is not only politically wise, it is morally right.
We trust that you will act in the interest of justice, fairness, and the long-term peace of Warri North,
respectfully”.