Isoko Group Petitions Oborevwori Over Alleged Threat to Peace, Seeks Probe Of INYA

By Joseph Bienbo, Warri

A group under the auspices of the Isoko Development Union, IDU, Youth Wing Forum has petitioned the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, alleging that the activities of the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) pose a threat to the unity, peace, and security of Isoko Nation.

In the petition addressed to the governor, the group claimed that the activities of INYA have allegedly created division, disunity, and tension among youths in Isoko communities. It appealed to the state government to investigate the allegations and take appropriate action to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

The petition referenced a peaceful protest held on July 22, 2026, by the Isoko Development Union (IDU) Youth Wing, led by its President-General, Comrade Joel Emeni. According to the petitioners, the protest was organized to draw the attention of the Delta State Government and oil companies operating in Isoko land to the implementation of local content policies in host communities.

The petition was signed by its national coordinator Gen. Omogha Wilson Ajiri and a copy was sent to Congress Newspaper.

The group, however, alleged that members of the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA), alongside individuals said to be affiliated with the Ozoro Youth Assembly, circulated false information on social media claiming that the protest was intended to attack oil companies and government facilities. The petition described the claims as false and misleading.

The petition further alleged that INYA has been presenting itself as the official leadership and spokesperson of Isoko Nation without the approval of the recognised leadership institutions of the Isoko people.

It also accused some individuals allegedly associated with the group of using their positions in government to influence the allocation of political appointments, employment opportunities, empowerment programmes, and benefits from oil companies and Tantita Security Services Limited, to the disadvantage of the recognised leadership structures and the broader Isoko populace. These allegations have not been independently verified.

The petitioners maintained that the recognised leadership structure of Isoko Nation comprises the Traditional Rulers and Council of Chiefs, the Isoko Development Union (IDU) Elders Forum, the Isoko Development Union (IDU) Youth Wing, Community Heads and Chairmen, as well as Community Presidents-General.

They called on Governor Oborevwori to order a thorough investigation into the allegations, expressing confidence that prompt government intervention would help preserve peace, unity, and stability across Isoko Nation.

As of the time of filing this report, the Isoko National Youth Assembly (INYA) had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the petition.