Focus Egbema Group Condemns Misleading Claims by Isoko Group (ISOPLOT), Over INEC Ward Delineation in Warri Federal Constituency,

Focus Egbema Group Condemns Misleading Claims by Isoko Group (ISOPLOT), Over INEC Ward Delineation in Warri Federal Constituency

By EgbemaVoice,

The Focus Egbema Group (FEG) has issued a strong statement condemning the recent press briefing by a group known as the Isoko Political Youth Leaders of Thought (ISOPLOT), held in Asaba, Delta State. During the briefing, ISOPLOT, represented by its Chairman, Comrade Daniel Omoraro, and others called for the cancellation of the recent Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ward delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency. The group alleged that the exercise could disrupt the ethnic harmony in Delta South Senatorial District.

In response, FEG has dismissed ISOPLOT's claims as baseless and misleading, accusing the group of being a tool for certain vested Itsekiri interests. The Egbema-based organization emphasized that the statements made by ISOPLOT were not only false but also aimed at undermining the legitimate representation of the Ijaw people in Warri Federal Constituency.

The Focus Egbema Group has provided clarity on several key issues surrounding the recent INEC ward delineation:

1. Ijaws as the Original Settlers: The Ijaw people are the aboriginal inhabitants of Warri and have consistently contributed to its development and cultural heritage. Claims suggesting that the Itsekiris are the majority ethnic group in Warri are categorically false.

2. Urhobo as the Majority Ethnic Group in Warri Township: FEG stated that, contrary to ISOPLOT’s assertions, the Ijaw are the largest ethnic group in Warri Federal Constituency, not the Itsekiris.

3. Supreme Court-Directed Delineation: The ward delineation exercise was conducted under the directive of the Supreme Court. This process dismantled existing wards and polling units that included ghost communities and other anomalies, which had historically marginalized majority ethnic groups like the Ijaws.

The group noted that the Ijaws have pursued this justice for decades, with the delineation exercise being a culmination of their legal efforts to secure equitable representation.

FEG has criticized ISOPLOT for its divisive statements, claiming they are a deliberate attempt to sow discord among the ethnic groups in Delta South Senatorial District. According to FEG, the assertions made by ISOPLOT about the potential for renewed ethnic tensions are unfounded and suggest an alignment with Itsekiri interests that aim to undermine the progress achieved through the delineation process.

“The Isoko people should focus on addressing their ancestral territories and legitimate political concerns instead of attempting to destabilize the political structure of Warri Federal Constituency,” FEG said.

Furthermore, the group condemned ISOPLOT's attempt to portray the Ijaw people as aggressors, asserting that the Ijaws remain committed to lawfulness and fairness in all political processes.

The Focus Egbema Group has made the following demands:

1. Accountability: The Federal Government should hold ISOPLOT accountable for any breakdown of peace or security in the Warri Metropolitan area, given the inflammatory nature of their statements.

2. Responsibility Among Isoko Stakeholders: Isoko stakeholders and leaders must call ISOPLOT and similar groups to order, ensuring that they refrain from actions that could harm the reputation of the Isoko ethnic group or disrupt regional harmony.

3. Respect for Due Process: All ethnic groups in Delta South Senatorial District should respect the Supreme Court’s judgment and the INEC process that has restored fairness to the political structure of Warri Federal Constituency.

The Ijaw people of Warri Federal Constituency have reaffirmed their commitment to peace, unity, and the rule of law. FEG stressed that the Ijaws are law-abiding citizens who support equitable representation and harmonious coexistence among all ethnic groups in the region.

The Focus Egbema Group concluded by warning against any further attempts to destabilize the political landscape or undermine the legitimate rights of the Ijaw people. FEG emphasized that fairness, mutual respect, and dialogue are essential for sustained peace and development in Delta South Senatorial District.

Signed, 

Comrade M. Sayami Ogumaka,

Stakeholder, Focus Egbema Group

Comrade Tamara Idoji coordinator, Focus Egbema Group,