The Itsekiri Chiefs have called on the Ogbe-Ijoh monarch, HRM Monbene III, to restrain his subjects and supporters from causing further mayhem in Warri, Delta State. This development is part of a long-standing boundary dispute between the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic groups.
The Itsekiri Chiefs want the Ogbe-Ijoh monarch to restrain his subjects from harassing Itsekiri people and causing more trouble in the area.
They demand the immediate removal of all Ogbe-Ijoh monarch banners from Warri South, which they claim is an attempt to assert sovereignty over the area.
The Itsekiri Chiefs are also calling for a panel of inquiry to be set up by the Delta State Government to investigate the matter.
They want a full investigation by federal security agencies into the recent clashes.
The full demands by the Itsekiri chiefs were well stated in a statement in which parts read “That His Majesty, forthwith, causes to be removed, all the said banners and billboards mounted in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State of Nigeria same being outside the reign of His Majesty by the judgment of the Lower Court that His Majesty has appealed against.
“That His Majesty forthwith, restrains the indigenes and people of Ogbe-Ijoh community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, including other Ijaws who are within and outside Warri and environs who are either tenants or illegally resident in the particular area of this crisis from any further acts of hooliganism and harassment of the Itsekiri people.
“That His Majesty forthwith, causes the cessation of all further threats to kill more people if His Majesty’s domain is not extended beyond what the trial court has decided.
“That the State Government should set up a Panel of Inquiry to investigate this matter and rescind its immediate statement to the effect of politicking the issue.
“That the Inspector General of Police should immediately conduct a thorough investigationinto the incidence.”
The dispute centers around the Ogbe-Ijoh kingdom’s claims to parts of Warri South, which the Itsekiris argue is an illegal attempt to extend their territory. The Itsekiris cite a landmark 2024 court decision that affirmed their rightful claim to the disputed areas. However, the Ogbe-Ijoh people assert their historical and legal rights in Warri South, referencing previous court rulings and traditional laws that support their claims.
Tensions remain high in the area, with both sides presenting their cases and historical evidence to support their claims. The situation highlights the complexities of ethnic and territorial disputes in the region, with each side deeply invested in their historical and legal narratives.
Speaking at a function in Warri on Friday, September 19, Governor Sheriff said he will not speak on the matter and urged all parties to peacefully coexist.
