Press Statement
Ijaw, Urhobo Leaders Dismiss Agbarah Claims on Warri Delineation, Defend Ijaw Presence in Warri South
By Tama Peretengboro
WARRI – Leaders of the Ijaw and Urhobo ethnic nationalities in Warri Federal Constituency have strongly rejected a recent joint statement issued by some Itsekiri and Agbarha Urhobo stakeholders, describing it as misleading and filled with distortions regarding the implementation of the Supreme Court-ordered ward delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency.
Addressing journalists in a joint press briefing on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, the leaders maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu never ordered any alteration to the names of Registration Areas (RAs) or electoral wards in Warri South Local Government Area, contrary to claims made in the earlier statement.
According to the leaders, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu never directed for the change of names of registration areas/electoral wards in Warri South Local Government Area as proposed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The President’s directive on registration areas/electoral wards was clear and restricted to Warri South West LGA and generally on power sharing in the three Warri Local Government Areas.”
They noted that the agreements reached during the presidential intervention had already been implemented by INEC in its final delineation report released on June 16, 2026, thereby bringing the exercise to a conclusion.
The leaders commended INEC for complying with the terms agreed upon by Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo stakeholders, describing the commission’s action as a demonstration of commitment to the rule of law and the Supreme Court judgment.
Dispute Over Power Sharing
The briefing also addressed issues surrounding power sharing arrangements in Warri South LGA. The Ijaw and Urhobo leaders alleged that efforts to achieve an inclusive political arrangement were frustrated during mediation meetings in Abuja.
They stated that “the Presidential directive on power sharing was not restricted to the proposed Warri Federal Constituency 11, but to all positions in the Warri Federal Constituency, including the Warri Federal Constituency 1 covering Warri South LGA.”
According to them, the participation of Urhobo representatives in the negotiations was intended to secure equitable representation for all ethnic groups within Warri South LGA rather than merely witnessing discussions between Ijaw and Itsekiri stakeholders.
The leaders further expressed dissatisfaction with the allocation of eight registration areas to the Itsekiri ethnic nationality in Warri South LGA but said they accepted the outcome out of respect for President Tinubu and in the interest of peace.
“We accepted the final report of the delineation in Warri South LGA as a mark of respect for Mr. President. Hence, we call on the Itsekiris to allow sleeping dogs lie,” they stated.
Ijaw Presence in Warri South Reaffirmed
A major aspect of the briefing focused on what the leaders described as repeated attempts to deny the historical and political presence of Ijaw communities in Warri South Local Government Area.
Rejecting claims that there are no Ijaw communities in the area, the leaders argued that the issue had been examined repeatedly by government institutions and electoral authorities and had consistently been resolved in favour of the Ijaw people.
“From available intelligence reports, physical communities on ground and existing electoral polling units, the Ijaw people are integral part of Warri South Local Government Area,” they said, citing deliberations held between INEC officials and ethnic stakeholders before the commencement of fieldwork for the delineation exercise.
They explained that INEC field officers specifically assigned to Ijaw communities conducted their work within settlements that now constitute the newly created Ewein, Bulou-Ama (GRA 2) and Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Urban wards.
The leaders further argued that the Ijaw people have historically participated in the administration of Warri South, pointing to records dating back to the former Warri Urban District Council established under Western Region Law No. 177 of 1955.
According to the briefing, the law created four electoral wards for Ijaw residents in Warri Township, namely Alders Town B3, Ogbe-Ijoh Ward C1, Ogbe-Ijoh Ward C2 and Government Area F1.
They contended that subsequent electoral restructuring reduced those wards into polling units within larger wards, resulting in what they described as political marginalisation of the Ijaw population.
“The fact that the Ijaw areas were balkanized into polling units, marginalised and denied political representation does not mean that the Ijaws do not exist in Warri South Local Government Area before the Supreme Court ordered fresh delineation,” the leaders declared.
Historical and Legal Evidence
The briefing cited several historical and legal instruments, including the 1955 Western Region Law, the Delta State Communities Development Committee (CDC) Law of 2005, and the 1999 Gazette establishing the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, as evidence of the recognition of Ijaw communities in Warri South LGA.
The leaders also referenced previous political appointments involving Ijaw representatives in Warri South and noted that communities such as Ewein, Ogbe-Ijoh, Perebiri, Lotiebiri and Ikiandumu have long been officially recognised within the local government area.
They questioned attempts to exclude Ewein Community from Warri South despite its proximity to Warri Township while more distant Itsekiri communities remain within the local government’s administrative boundaries.
Call for Special Voter Registration
In their concluding remarks, the Ijaw and Urhobo leaders urged the Federal Government and INEC to disregard efforts to reopen issues already settled through the delineation process.
They maintained that stakeholders had accepted the final report and were already preparing for its implementation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The leaders also called on INEC to conduct a special voter registration exercise across the newly created polling units and registration areas in Warri Federal Constituency.
According to them, “This is to enable voters who have been denied political participation in the past register to vote in the 2027 general elections and onward, and also enable transfer of voters to the newly created polling units and registration areas.”
The joint briefing was signed by Alaowei Denbo-Denbofa Oweikpodor, Olorogun Victor Okumagba, Chief Godspower Gbenekama, Chief John Eranvor, Chief Arthur Akpodubakaye, Chief Femi Okumagba, Chief David Reje and Pastor Samuel Ako.
Press Statement
PRESS STATEMENT: FORMAL STEP-DOWN FROM MY CHAIRMANSHIP AMBITION FOR THE PURPOSE OF PEACE, UNITY, LOVE AND HARMONY.
Being Texts of Press Statement Issued by Engr. Ebiotubo Elijah Amakubukuro (MNSE), on His Official Withdrawal from the Odimodi Community Chairmanship Race
Today, June 10, 2026, marks a very significant and memorable day in my life as I, Engr. Ebiotubo Elijah Amakubukuro, formally informed members of the Seighabina-1 Family of my decision to voluntarily step down from my chairmanship ambition.
I made this known during the Seighabina-1 Family Meeting held at the residence of the late Pa Idumufinine Bekewei as my decision is deeply rooted in the teachings of the Holy Bible, particularly Romans 12:10, which says:
“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.”
This powerful scripture above inspired my resolve to place family unity above personal ambition.
As I am fully aware, all seven aspirants vying for the chairmanship position are sons of the revered IPINGI Dynasty—brothers connected by blood, history, shared values, and a common heritage. Consequently, there is absolutely no justification for creating rancour, division, bitterness, or internal enmity over a leadership position that is merely temporary, if the intention is truly to serve our people.
Whosoever eventually assumes the mantle of leadership remains our blood brother and a member of the same family. Therefore, the bond that unites us must never be sacrificed on the altar of political ambition or personal interest.
With my understanding of the leadership structure and governance pattern of Odimodi Community, coupled with my experience as an Emeritus President of the National Association of Odimodi Students (NAOS), and my academic and professional background as an Engineer, I am confident that I would have made a strong fit for piloting the affairs of our dear community effectively over the next twenty-four months.
However, leadership is not about self-imposition or glorification; it is about sacrifice, service, and the ability to place collective interests above personal aspirations.
For the above reasons, I have chosen to esteem family bonds above myself by stepping aside in the interest of peace, unity, love, and harmony.
Leadership is not a do-or-die affair.
Even if it were PDP versus APC.
This is not a political contest between strangers.
This aught to be and remains a family matter.
As such, it is not worth destroying relationships, creating enemies, or weakening family ties that have been built and nurtured over several generations. Odimodi chairmanship tenure lasts for only twenty-four months, but family relationships endure for a lifetime. Family love comes first before personal interest.
Brotherly Love Must Continue.
In the same spirit, I wish to use this opportunity to passionately appeal to the conscience of the remaining aspirants to embrace the path of peace and unity by considering a consensus arrangement that will produce a single candidate from among the six remaining aspirants.
Such a noble decision would significantly reduce tension, unnecessary expenditure, and potential divisions while fostering mutual respect, understanding, and lasting harmony within the family.
At this critical moment in our history, we must remember that unity remains our greatest strength. Whatever decision we make today will shape the future relationship among our children, grandchildren, and generations yet unborn.
To all those who may feel disappointed by my decision, I sincerely appreciate your support, encouragement, prayers, and confidence in my leadership abilities. I urge you to understand that my decision was not borne out of weakness, fear, or lack of capacity, but from a sincere commitment to preserving family unity and promoting peaceful coexistence.
As I have always believed: “Family is over everything.”
And therefore: “I have stepped aside and moved on.”
I remain committed to the progress, development, peace, and unity of Seighabina-1 Family, the Ipingi Dynasty, and the entire Odimodi Community. My support for any collective effort aimed at advancing our common interest remains unwavering.
I wish to express my profound gratitude to the Chairman of Seighabina-1 Family, the elders, stakeholders, women, and all family members for their understanding, maturity, and commitment to peace throughout this process.
May God continue to strengthen the bonds that unite us and guide us toward greater unity and progress.
God bless Seighabina-1 Family.
God bless the Ipingi Dynasty.
God bless the Akeme Family.
God bless the Fuo Family.
God bless Odimodi Community.
One Love.
Signed:
Engr. Ebiotubo Amakubukuro (MNSE)
PRESS STATEMENT
Hearty Celebrations With Okuama Community Over Court Judgment
Being Texts of a Press Statement Issued by Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, PhD., om June 10, 2026.
I warmly celebrate with the people of Okuama Community following the judgment of the Federal High Court sitting in Warri, which granted relief to detainees in connection with the unfortunate Okuama military saga.
This judgment represents a significant step towards justice, healing, and reconciliation. It also reinforces the importance of the rule of law and due process in our democratic system. I commend the judiciary for its courage and commitment to upholding justice and protecting the rights of citizens.
As someone who has consistently advocated for peace, dialogue, and sustainable development, I believe this development should mark the beginning of a new chapter for Okuama and its neighbouring communities. It is a time for healing wounds, rebuilding trust, and embracing reconciliation for the collective good of all.
I sincerely appeal to the people of Okuama Community and all Deltans to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and understanding. Sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability. Communities that are united and peaceful naturally attract government attention, private investments, and development opportunities that improve the lives of their people.
The unfortunate events that led to the crisis should serve as a lesson to all of us on the need to prioritize dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution over confrontation. No community can achieve meaningful progress in an environment of hostility and division.
I therefore urge community leaders, youths, women, and all stakeholders to work together in strengthening relationships with neighbouring communities and fostering an enduring culture of peace. Let us place the future of our children and the development of our communities above every other consideration.
My prayer is that this judgment will further promote healing, reconciliation, and unity among all parties while opening new opportunities for growth, progress, and development in Okuama and the entire Delta State.
Peace remains the greatest legacy we can leave for future generations, and I encourage everyone to remain committed to sustaining it.
Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, PhD
Peace Ambassador, Environmental Rights Activist and Development Advocate
PRESS STATEMENT
RE: DISCLAIMER AND REFUTATION OF A FALSE PRESS RELEASE BEING CIRCULATED IN MY NAME
* Warn perpetrators to desist or face the law
My dear people of Warri Federal Constituency, members of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), friends, supporters, and the general public,
My attention has been drawn to a purported press release currently circulating on social media and other platforms, allegedly issued and signed by me, Chief Comrade Sheriff Mulade, concerning the recently concluded NDC House of Representatives primary election for Warri Federal Constituency.
I wish to state categorically, unequivocally, and without any ambiguity that I neither authored, approved, nor authorized the publication and circulation of the said statement. The document is false, fraudulent, misleading, and the handiwork of desperate mischief-makers whose sole objective is to create confusion, misrepresent my position, and undermine the democratic process within our great party.
Contrary to the claims contained in the forged statement, I have not at any point accepted any manipulated result nor conceded victory to any individual regarding the NDC primary election. The issues surrounding the conduct of the primary and the declaration of results remain matters that are well known to party stakeholders, and appropriate channels exist within the party and under the law for addressing such concerns.
The fraudulent statement falsely attributed to me was clearly designed to deceive party members and the general public into believing that I have abandoned my legitimate victory position regarding the outcome of the primary election. Nothing can be farther from the truth. I remain committed to justice, transparency, internal democracy, and the protection of the mandate freely given by genuine delegates.
I am particularly disappointed that some individuals, including a few of my own brothers have allegedly allowed themselves to be used as instruments for the dissemination of falsehood, forgery, impersonation, and political propaganda. Such actions are not only morally wrong but also constitute serious criminal offences under the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Let it be clearly understood that forgery, criminal impersonation, identity theft, cyberstalking, and the publication of false information are offences punishable under various provisions of Nigerian law, including the Criminal Code, Penal Code, and the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act. No political interest is worth jeopardizing one’s reputation and freedom through criminal conduct.
I therefore issue a strong warning to all individuals and groups involved in the creation, circulation, sponsorship, or promotion of this fake statement to immediately desist from such unlawful activities. Those responsible are advised to withdraw the publication, tender an unreserved apology, and refrain from further acts capable of misleading the public or damaging my reputation.
I have instructed my legal team and relevant authorities to commence necessary steps to identify the perpetrators behind this forgery and impersonation. Anyone found culpable will be held accountable in accordance with the law.
To my loyal supporters, political associates, and well-wishers, I urge you to remain calm, focused, and law-abiding. Do not be distracted by falsehoods and provocations. Continue to support our collective struggle for fairness, justice, and credible leadership within our party and beyond.
The truth remains constant, and no amount of propaganda and money can alter the facts.
Thank you, and may God continue to bless Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State, and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Signed:
Chief Comrade Sheriff Mulade
House of Representatives Candidate,
Warri Federal Constituency
Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC)
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