IPDI condemns attack on Ijaw indigene Abeki, Olabrakopre Warri urban community by Itsekiri Irate Youth

By Monday Peters, Abuja

Revered civil rights group, the Ijaw People’s Development Initiative, IPDI has condemned the recent gun attack on Ijaw indigene, Mr Abeki , a tricycle rider in Odion road and gun assault on Olabrakeopre Ijaw Warri urban community by Irate Itsekiri youths.

In a statement by the group’s national president Comrade Ozobo Austin said the recent violence that occurred in Warri, Delta State has caused great concern for the Ijaw Peoples Development Initiative (IPDI), stressing that the act of violence was completely unacceptable as it goes against the values of peace and harmony that had strived in Warri over the years.

The statement reads, “We strongly condemn the attack on Olabrakopre community and the shooting of Abeki, a tricycle rider by Itsekiri irate youth. This act of violence is completely unacceptable and goes against the values of peace and harmony that we strive for as a society.

“It is disheartening to see that the recent delineation of the Warri federal constituency which every concern group including the Itsekiri leaders participated and due process was followed has led to such a violent reaction from the Itsekiri youth.

“The attack on the Ijaw Warri urban community, in which the Itsekiri youth not only shot sporadically but also destroyed properties, is a clear act of aggression and provocation.
It is commendable that the Ijaw community did not respond to this blatant act of violence. They have shown great restraint and maturity in the face of such adversity. However, we cannot ignore the fact that this incident has caused great fear and distress among the Ijaw people. It is only natural for them to feel insecure and worried for their safety.

“We urge the Itsekiri community to call their youth to order and to denounce this act of violence. We believe in peaceful coexistence and it is important for all communities to live together in harmony. The Ijaw people have always been known for their peaceful and law-abiding nature, and we will continue to uphold these values.
We also call on the Delta State Government to take immediate action to prevent such incidents from happening in the future. We cannot afford to let such violent incidents go unchecked, as it will only lead to further animosity between communities in Warri.

“In conclusion, we stand in solidarity with the Ijaw community in Warri and call for justice to be served. We also appeal to our neighbors Itsekiri to maintain peace. Let us all remember that violence only begets violence, but it is through peaceful dialogue that we can achieve lasting peace and progress”, the group said.