Nigeria TV Info – Tension in Warri as Ijaws, Itsekiris Nearly Clash Over Coronation Banners

Warri, Delta State – Palpable tension gripped parts of Warri on Tuesday as Ijaw and Itsekiri communities narrowly avoided a clash over the display of banners and billboards marking the coronation anniversary of the Pere of Ogbe-Ijoh Warri Kingdom, Mobene III.

The situation was defused thanks to the swift intervention of security agencies, who prevented what could have escalated into a major conflict in the oil-rich town, the headquarters of Warri South Local Government Area.

Reports indicate that the unrest began when security agents, accompanied by suspected Itsekiri youths, removed banners erected by the Ijaw community. The banners commemorated the coronation anniversary of the Pere, but the act reignited longstanding disputes over land ownership in Warri, a conflict the Itsekiris have historically resisted.

In response, angry Ijaw youths and women staged protests across Warri, demanding the reinstatement of the posters and billboards. The protest led to the deployment of heavily armed soldiers and police, who have since maintained a visible presence to prevent further escalation between the two ethnic groups.

Socio-economic activities were severely disrupted throughout the day, particularly around the commercial hubs. Traders at the popular Ibo Market and surrounding areas closed their shops prematurely, while schools shut down as parents struggled to ensure the safety of their children.