A youth group under the banner of Isoko Political Youth Leaders of Thought has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to suspend the ongoing ward delineation exercise in Warri, Delta State, warning that the process has sparked ethnic tensions that could jeopardise peace in the region.
The group made the call during a press briefing in Asaba, where they expressed alarm over what they described as a calculated attempt to skew the political balance in Delta South Senatorial District in favour of a particular ethnic group.
According to the group’s chairman, Daniel Omoraro, the exercise has triggered protests and unrest among the Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Urhobo communities, who have long maintained a fragile but stable political and economic relationship in the Warri metropolis.
He said the delineation, if not properly managed, could disrupt the peace that has existed for decades and fuel division ahead of the 2031 governorship race, which many expect to return to Delta South.
Omoraro alleged that certain political actors were deliberately pushing for a configuration that would favour one group over the others, thereby weakening the position of others, particularly the Itsekiri and Isoko blocs.
He said such moves were designed to influence future electoral outcomes, effectively isolating some communities from meaningful political participation and development opportunities.
The group warned that the ongoing agitation, including the shutdown of oil facilities in parts of Warri, may escalate unless urgent steps are taken to restore fairness, equity, and inclusion.
They appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser to intervene and monitor developments in the region, stressing the strategic importance of peace in the Niger Delta to national stability.
They also urged INEC to suspend the delineation exercise until proper consultations are held and assurances of ethnic balance are secured.
