The Delta State Government has dismissed as false and misleading recent allegations by Zik Gbemre, the coordinator of the Niger Delta Peace Coalition (NDPC), accusing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of stoking ethnic conflict in Warri and politicising sensitive community issues.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads and Public Information), Charles Aniagwu, the government said the accusations were nothing but a campaign of calumny against the Governor and do not reflect his consistent commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive governance in the state.
“Since assuming office, Governor Oborevwori has prioritized the peaceful coexistence of all ethnic nationalities in Delta State, with particular attention to the unique diversity of Warri and its environs.
“He has consistently engaged traditional rulers, community leaders, and stakeholders to ensure the dark days of ethnic strife never return to our beloved state,” the statement read.
The government emphasized that at no time did Governor Oborevwori endorse, support, or encourage acts that could be construed as threats to peace or tacit approval of ethnic superiority, insisting that he has played the role of a neutral arbiter and unifier in community matters.
Aniagwu noted that the Governor has repeatedly called for restraint, dialogue, and mutual respect among all communities and recently underscored his commitment to fairness during his State of the State address.
He disclosed that security agencies had been directed to investigate reported acts of vandalism or provocation linked to recent incidents in Warri.
“It is inaccurate and unfair to suggest that the Governor ‘takes delight in making passive threats’ or that he is ‘playing politics’ with the situation. His Excellency has maintained open channels of communication with all traditional institutions in Delta State,” Aniagwu stressed.
He further assured that all cultural celebrations in the state would continue to be conducted within the bounds of law, respect, and tradition, with necessary accountability where infractions occur, regardless of the community involved.
The Commissioner appealed to community leaders, youth groups, and civil society organizations to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and instead work with the government to build bridges of cooperation and understanding.
“Governor Oborevwori remains Governor for all Deltans—Itsekiri, Urhobo, Ijaw, Isoko, Anioma, and every other group. He will not be distracted by unfounded accusations or attempts to politicize communal issues,” Aniagwu said.
He reaffirmed the Governor’s resolve to continue promoting peace and development across the state while attracting investments that would create job opportunities for all Deltans.
