IYC Western Zone Seeks Security Review Of Alleged Threatening Comments, Calls For Immediate Implementation Of Warri Delineation Report
The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Western Zone has called on relevant security agencies to investigate comments allegedly made by prominent Itsekiri leader, Chief Alex Eyengho, over the ongoing Warri delineation matter, warning that statements capable of inflaming ethnic tensions must not be ignored.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of the IYC Western Zone, Comrade Nicholas Tamara-Denyefa Igarama, the Council expressed concern over remarks reportedly made during a televised media engagement in which Chief Eyengho was quoted as saying, “things dey, tools dey,” while addressing issues relating to the Warri Federal Constituency delineation exercise.
According to the Council, given the historical sensitivity of ethnic relations in Warri and the significance of the ongoing delineation process, any statement capable of being interpreted as a threat should be thoroughly examined by the appropriate authorities.
The IYC noted that Warri has experienced several episodes of communal unrest in the past, including the crises of 1997, 1999, and 2003, stressing that inflammatory rhetoric and provocative utterances have often contributed to the escalation of conflicts.
“History has shown that violence is often preceded by words capable of creating fear, suspicion, and hostility among communities. It is therefore important that all stakeholders exercise caution in their public engagements and avoid statements that may be perceived as threatening or divisive,” the statement said.
The Council consequently called on the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant security agencies to investigate the reported comments and determine whether they constitute incitement, intimidation, or a potential threat to public peace.
The IYC further maintained that while the Ijaw people remain committed to peace, dialogue, and constitutional processes, they would continue to speak out against actions or statements capable of undermining peaceful coexistence among the various ethnic nationalities in Warri Federal Constituency.
The Council also expressed concern over what it described as the prolonged delay in the implementation of the completed ward delineation report by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), noting that the delay has continued to generate uncertainty and tension across the constituency.
According to the IYC, the delineation exercise was carried out in compliance with constitutional provisions and judicial directives, and its implementation should not be hindered by political interests, ethnic sentiments, or external pressure.
“The continued delay in implementing the delineation report creates room for misinformation, unnecessary agitation, and avoidable tension among the affected communities. INEC must demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law by concluding all outstanding processes and implementing the report without further delay,” the Council stated.
The IYC Western Zone also appealed to the Federal Government, the Delta State Government, security agencies, traditional institutions, and community leaders to take proactive measures aimed at preserving peace and preventing any breakdown of law and order in the Warri area.
Reaffirming its commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence, the Council stressed that no ethnic group should be subjected to threats or intimidation and that all parties must embrace dialogue, justice, and mutual respect as the foundation for lasting peace.
The statement concluded by urging all stakeholders to prioritize the collective interest of the people of Warri Federal Constituency and support efforts aimed at sustaining peace, promoting justice, and strengthening democratic governance.
