PANDEF Commends Gov Sheriff Oborevwori On Warri Peace Efforts & Calls On All Parties To Maintain Unity And Restraint

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has noted with appreciation the efforts of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the Executive Governor of Delta State to sustain the existing peace and unity in the Warri Area through effective engagement with relevant stakeholders in the past months.

In a statement signed by the National Chairman, Ambassador Godknows Boladei Igali, PANDEF said, “We particularly note that even before coming directly to Warri, on Monday, 8th June, 2026, to meet with Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo leaders over emerging conflicts arising from ward delineations, the Governor had earlier convened similar peace efforts in Asaba”.

“PANDEF wishes to remind our fathers, mothers and leaders in the area that the shared heritage which inseparably binds the people of Warri for hundreds of years, will continue deep into the future.”

“It is common knowledge that Warri, is one of Nigeria’s most amazing cities of culture and tradition. For hundreds of years, the three ethnic groups have lived together, traded together, intermarried, spoken each other’s languages and built a unique and awe-inspiring heritage. The Warri story has therefore, always epitomised the old African saying that, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” So, the existing cultural bonds are the greatest heritage, far stronger than any boundary line on a map or presumed unarguably on political differences.”

“More especially, PANDEF calls on our sons and daughters of Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri-North to appreciate the fact that they are the custodians of tomorrow and must not allow themselves to be used as tools of division or destruction. The rich future which the Warri dream holds, will only exist if there is peace today. So, all must stand up for unity, reject inciting voices on social media, and protect the legacy of this great area.”

“PANDEF would like to reassure all, that consistent with its mandate, it will continue to play its role in peace making and peace building. We will continue to undertake various confidence-building measures across the communities to rebuild trust and reinforce unity.
Furthermore, we pledge our full support to any initiative that promotes justice, fairness, and development for the area and all its people.”