Stakeholders of Gbaramatu Kingdom have called on the federal and Delta State governments to urgently intervene over alleged threats issued against Ijaw residents of Ikantu and Ijaghala communities by individuals suspected to be from the Itsekiri ethnic nationality.
The Fiyewei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Chief Godspower Gbenekama, during a press briefing on Monday, warned that the threats to displace the Ijaw people from their ancestral communities should not be dismissed or treated lightly.
According to Chief Gbenekama, the Ijaw ethnic nationality has always been known for peace and will continue to uphold that tradition. However, he expressed concern that since discussions on ward delineation began, residents of Ikantu and Ijaghala have faced increasing intimidation and threats of eviction.
“We, the Ijaws, will not fight the Itsekiri people, but they must leave the Ikantu and Ijaghala people alone. We are peaceful people, but if any Ikantu or Ijaghala indigene is attacked by the Itsekiris because of their ancestral ties to Gbaramatu Kingdom, the gods will fight for us.
“There is freedom of speech, movement, and association in this country, and I am pleading with those threatening our brothers and sisters in Ikantu and Ijaghala communities to desist from such acts,” Gbenekama said.
The Gbaramatu leader further urged government at all levels to prioritize the safety of all citizens and cited the tragic killings in Benue as a reminder of the consequences of unchecked violence.
He also appealed to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conclude the delineation of Warri Federal Constituency without further delay, stressing that lingering uncertainties could fuel tension.
Chief Gbenekama called on the state government to identify and apprehend gunrunners allegedly arming themselves in preparation for attacks on the Ijaws of Gbaramatu and other Ijaw kingdoms, warning that such actions could plunge the area into crisis.
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