The Head of the Association of Urhobo Mayoral Family Crown (AUMFC) and former militant leader, Eshanekpe Israel, popularly known as Akpodoro, has appealed for calm amidst rising tensions in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
Speaking from Abuja on Thursday, Akpodoro condemned the reported violent clash involving the Urhobos of Okere Urhobo Kingdom and suspected Itsekiri youths, urging all parties to prioritize peace and stability for the sake of development in the state.
According to reports, armed youths allegedly attacked Okere Urhobo on Wednesday evening, shooting sporadically and setting houses ablaze. Community members have accused the Warri South LGA Chairman, Tidi Michael, of allegedly backing the attackers, who are said to be of Itsekiri origin.
In his statement, Akpodoro called on Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to act swiftly to prevent the crisis from escalating into a full-blown conflict, drawing parallels to the recent violence in Okuama Community that led to tragic loss of lives.
He emphasized the longstanding coexistence between the Urhobo and Itsekiri people, noting their shared history, intermarriages, and deep cultural ties. “There is no reason for brothers to take up arms against each other,” he said. “Hurting an Okere Urhobo man is as good as hurting one’s own family.”
Akpodoro also urged community leaders to ensure there are no retaliatory attacks, stressing the need for restraint and reconciliation. “We must not allow the wounds of past ethnic conflicts in the region to reopen. Peace must be enforced immediately,” he concluded.
