JUST IN: Ijaw Youths Launch Violent Attack on Peaceful Itsekiri Protesters in Warri

A peaceful demonstration by Itsekiri youths in Warri spiraled into chaos on Monday after a violent assault by Ijaw youths at the NPA Miller Waterside area, leaving over ten protesters seriously injured and prompting an urgent security response.

The protest, organized by the Itsekiri community, aimed to challenge the recent delineation of electoral wards and units in the Warri Federal Constituency by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). According to the demonstrators, the new electoral map marginalses the Itsekiri people,

The procession began peacefully, moving through key parts of the city, including Rice Farm, Estate Roundabout, and Warri Main Market. However, as the group reached the Miller Waterside, a busy area that houses the Tunde Smooth Jetty tensions escalated unexpectedly.

Eyewitnesses say Ijaw youths, many of whom live and work around the jetty, confronted the protesters with a barrage of stones, bottles, and sharp objects. Several witnesses described the attack as sudden and coordinated.

“They ambushed us,” said one Itsekiri protester. “We were singing, carrying placards, and calling for justice. Then, out of nowhere, they started hurling missiles at us. It was terrifying.”

Medical personnel confirmed that at least ten individuals suffered serious injuries, with some victims sustaining deep cuts and head wounds. They have since been transported to nearby clinics and hospitals for urgent care.

Security forces, including units from the Nigerian Army, swiftly moved in to contain the violence. Heavy patrols have been established in and around the Miller Waterside, as well as neighboring areas like Ekurede Itsekiri and Ugbori, in a bid to prevent retaliatory clashes.

Monday’s violence marks a troubling resurgence of ethnic tension between the Itsekiris and Ijaws a rivalry with a long and bitter history in the oil-rich region. Analysts warn that incidents like this could jeopardize the fragile peace that Warri has struggled to maintain over the years.

In response to the incident, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has summoned a high-level emergency meeting in Abuja with leaders from the Itsekiri, Ijaw, and Urhobo communities to calm tensions and open a channel for dialogue regarding the disputed INEC exercise.

Meanwhile, the Itsekiri protest organizers say they remain undeterred and will continue pushing for fairness through peaceful means.

“This was an act of provocation, but we won’t respond with violence,” said one community leader. “We want justice, not war.”