Chief (Dr.) Godspower Gbenekama, the Fiyewei of Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, has expressed deep concern over the prolonged delay by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in implementing its ward delineation report, warning that the hesitation does not promote peace and stability in the region.
Speaking during a media interaction with members of the Ijaw Publishers’ Forum (IPF) at his residence in Effurun on Monday, June 9, 2025, the respected Ijaw leader called on INEC and the Federal Government to act swiftly, noting that the delay is fueling tensions.
“There’s no crisis in Warri,” Gbenekama emphasized, urging the Federal Government to remove any obstacles preventing INEC from completing its assignment. “The current hesitation opens the door for disorder. The Federal Government must not give credence to voices seeking to undermine peace.”
He specifically addressed resistance from some Itsekiri groups opposing the concluded ward delineation report in Warri Federal Constituency, describing their actions as unjustified.
“The arguments from the Itsekiri camp should not be taken seriously. When people enjoy privileges through manipulation, they naturally resist fairness. But the truth must stand,” Gbenekama said. “We, the Ijaw people of Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, Egbema, Diebiri, and Isaba, remain committed to peace. We are not seeking conflict.”
The Fiyewei noted that Niger Delta traditional rulers, including the Pere of Gbaramatu, have been making efforts to preserve peace across the region, and warned that delays and political maneuvering could endanger those gains.
“The government must act responsibly. INEC should be allowed to complete its work without further delay; it’s in the best interest of peace,” he said.
Calling for continued calm, Gbenekama extended a message of reconciliation to the Itsekiri, urging them to embrace peaceful coexistence.
“We are extending a hand of peace. Let them leave us alone in peace,” he said, while cautioning against alleged plans by certain individuals to sabotage national infrastructure to cast aspersions on High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) and Tantita Security Services.
“Let it be known that anyone planning to discredit Tompolo or Tantita will not succeed. Many lives; Ijaw and Itsekiri alike; have been saved because of Tantita’s efforts,” he added.
Gbenekama’s remarks highlight growing frustration within the Ijaw communities over the stalled ward delineation process and reflect a broader call for equitable representation and sustained peace in the Niger Delta.
