By Francis Sadhere, Warri
In a renewed push to prevent ethnic tensions and sustain stability in Warri, a broad coalition of stakeholders has come together under a new peacebuilding framework initiated by the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ).
The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, saw the inauguration of the Warri Indigene and Residents Peacebuilding Committee alongside the rollout of targeted programmes designed to strengthen unity among the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities.
The gathering brought together community leaders, government representatives, market unions, civil society organisations, security agencies, and non-indigenous residents, reflecting a collective resolve to preserve peace in the oil-rich city.
Speaking at the event, CEPEJ National Coordinator, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, emphasized that proactive engagement and collaboration among stakeholders remain key to preventing conflicts and fostering long-term harmony.
He noted that the newly formed committee would serve as a platform for dialogue, early conflict resolution, and coordinated responses to emerging tensions.
A seven-member executive committee was inaugurated to lead the effort, with Mr. Chuks Awogu as Chairman, supported by Toriitseju Igbiaye, Eburu Emuaghogho, Erediegha Precious, Comrade Hilda Amogha, and Mrs. Hajara Abubakar in various leadership roles.
Mulade urged members to set aside ethnic interests and focus on fairness and inclusivity, stressing that peace is essential for economic growth and sustainable development.
He also highlighted the importance of the prevailing peaceful environment in attracting investments, referencing ongoing development efforts by the Delta State Government.
Other stakeholders at the meeting echoed similar sentiments, calling on the committee to remain focused on its mandate and avoid actions that could derail its objectives.
As part of its strategy, CEPEJ introduced a range of programmes, including stakeholder training, advocacy campaigns, community engagements, and inter-ethnic visits aimed at deepening mutual understanding among residents.
The organisation also cautioned individuals and groups who benefit from crises to desist, urging them instead to channel their efforts into ventures that create jobs and support youth development.
Participants were reminded of Warri’s long-standing tradition of inter-ethnic coexistence, with speakers noting that sustained peace would unlock greater opportunities for all residents.
The inauguration of the committee and accompanying initiatives are being viewed as a proactive step toward strengthening trust, promoting dialogue, and ensuring lasting stability across Warri and its environs.
In a renewed push to prevent ethnic tensions and sustain stability in Warri, a broad coalition of stakeholders has come together under a new peacebuilding framework initiated by the Center for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ).
The initiative, unveiled on Thursday, saw the inauguration of the Warri Indigene and Residents Peacebuilding Committee alongside the rollout of targeted programmes designed to strengthen unity among the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities.
The gathering brought together community leaders, government representatives, market unions, civil society organisations, security agencies, and non-indigenous residents, reflecting a collective resolve to preserve peace in the oil-rich city.
Speaking at the event, CEPEJ National Coordinator, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, emphasized that proactive engagement and collaboration among stakeholders remain key to preventing conflicts and fostering long-term harmony.
He noted that the newly formed committee would serve as a platform for dialogue, early conflict resolution, and coordinated responses to emerging tensions.
A seven-member executive committee was inaugurated to lead the effort, with Mr. Chuks Awogu as Chairman, supported by Toriitseju Igbiaye, Eburu Emuaghogho, Erediegha Precious, Comrade Hilda Amogha, and Mrs. Hajara Abubakar in various leadership roles.
Mulade urged members to set aside ethnic interests and focus on fairness and inclusivity, stressing that peace is essential for economic growth and sustainable development.
He also highlighted the importance of the prevailing peaceful environment in attracting investments, referencing ongoing development efforts by the Delta State Government.
Other stakeholders at the meeting echoed similar sentiments, calling on the committee to remain focused on its mandate and avoid actions that could derail its objectives.
As part of its strategy, CEPEJ introduced a range of programmes, including stakeholder training, advocacy campaigns, community engagements, and inter-ethnic visits aimed at deepening mutual understanding among residents.
The organisation also cautioned individuals and groups who benefit from crises to desist, urging them instead to channel their efforts into ventures that create jobs and support youth development.
Participants were reminded of Warri’s long-standing tradition of inter-ethnic coexistence, with speakers noting that sustained peace would unlock greater opportunities for all residents.
The inauguration of the committee and accompanying initiatives are being viewed as a proactive step toward strengthening trust, promoting dialogue, and ensuring lasting stability across Warri and its environs.
