ension is running high in Warri, Delta State, following a clash between Ijaw and Itsekiri youths that resulted in one person being shot dead.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, with gunfire still audible in the area as of the last report. Residents, including both Itsekiri and Ijaw youths, fled in panic, while police were initially absent from the scene.
The conflict began after Ijaw youths accused policemen from the Warri Area Command of pulling down billboards commemorating the 10th coronation anniversary of the Pere of Ogbe-Ijoh, HRM Monbene III. This led to a protest by Ijaw youths at the Warri Area Command.
One person was reportedly shot dead, with the Ijaw youths claiming the victim was their kinsman shot by an Itsekiri counterpart.
However, the police disputed this, stating that nobody died but one person sustained injuries and is receiving treatment. “nobody died during the incident.” Bright Edafe Delta Police Public Relations Officer stated.
The Delta State Police Command has deployed personnel to Warri to prevent further breakdown of law and order. The Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has urged Ijaw and Itsekiri leaders to calm their youths and adhere to the law.
