IYC Western Zone Raises Alarm Over Threatening Remarks, Calls for Security Investigation and Urgent Implementation of Warri Delineation Report,
By Egbemavoice
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone has expressed serious concern over recent comments and actions capable of threatening peace and security in Warri Federal Constituency, Delta State.
The Council is particularly disturbed by remarks attributed to Itsekiri leader, Chief Alex Eyengho, during a televised media engagement in which he reportedly stated that "things de, tools de" while responding to issues surrounding the Warri delineation dispute.
Given the history of communal conflicts in Warri and the sensitivity of the ongoing delineation matter, such statements cannot be dismissed as casual expressions. Coming at a time when tensions remain high, the remarks have generated widespread apprehension among Ijaw communities who interpret them as an implied threat of violence.
The IYC Western Zone therefore calls on the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to immediately investigate the statement and determine whether it constitutes incitement, intimidation or a threat to public peace.
Warri has witnessed painful episodes of violence in the past. The crises of 1997, 1999 and 2003 remain painful reminders of the consequences of inflammatory rhetoric, ethnic provocation and delayed intervention by authorities.
Violence does not begin with weapons. Violence begins with words.
Our concern is further heightened by previous allegations and investigations relating to arms trafficking activities linked to individuals from the Warri area. Against such a backdrop, any public statement suggesting the existence of "tools" to confront or subdue another ethnic group should attract the immediate attention of security agencies.
The IYC Western Zone wishes to make it clear that the Ijaw people remain committed to peace, lawful conduct and constitutional engagement. However, no responsible organization can remain silent when comments capable of heightening ethnic tensions are made publicly.
The Council also notes with concern that the continued delay in implementing the completed INEC delineation report is contributing significantly to the tension currently being witnessed across Warri Federal Constituency.
The delineation exercise was conducted pursuant to constitutional provisions and judicial directives. Having completed the process, INEC must not allow political pressure, ethnic sentiments or vested interests to frustrate its implementation.
Every day of delay creates room for misinformation, agitation and unnecessary tension among communities.
We therefore call on INEC to immediately conclude all outstanding processes and commence the implementation of the delineation report in accordance with the Constitution and relevant court decisions.
The IYC Western Zone further urges the Federal Government, the Delta State Government and all security agencies to act proactively to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Warri belongs to all its people. No ethnic nationality should threaten another, and no individual should be allowed to make statements capable of undermining peaceful coexistence.
Nigeria must act now to preserve peace, uphold justice and prevent avoidable conflict.
Signed:
Comrade Nicholas Tamara-denyefa Igarama
Chairman, Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone
cc:
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori
Nigeria Police Force
Independent National Electoral Commission
INEC Nigeria
United States Secret Service
Amnesty International Africa
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