“Warri Can Only Heal When We Stop Fighting Ourselves,” Says Awani

Barrister Esimaje Vincent Awani has commenced a grassroots peace mission across Warri South local government area following rising ethnic and communal unrest. His engagement aims to restore calm through dialogue with traditional rulers, community groups, youth, and families affected by the recent conflict.

Recent weeks have witnessed violent clashes in parts of Warri between Itsekiri and Agbarha-Urhobo youths, due to disputes over territorial boundaries and ethnic processions. Multiple gunshot, injuries and fatalities in areas such as Pessu and Okere, were reported.

In one incident, Dele Ogunbayo, a local vigilante, was allegedly pursued and killed, heightening calls for justice and restraint from both communities.

During his peace tour, Barr. Awani visited the palaces of His Royal Majesty, Dr. Ogheneochuko Morris Eyemini-Egbobonyen (Owhotemu II), Orosuen of Okere-Urhobo Kingdom, and His Majesty, Kingsley Emakpo Orereh (IGBI II), Ovie of Agbarha Kingdom, urging the monarchs to use their influence to bring warring factions together. The two traditional rulers condemned the recent killings and called on security agencies to ensure justice and fairness in handling the crisis.

Barr. Awani also met youths in Agbassa, calling for calm and unity. He visited the families of Dele and another victim, Jerry Aduara, offering condolences and appealing to residents to reject violence. “Warri can only heal when we stop fighting ourselves and start standing for one another,” he said.

He urged all sides to embrace peace, stressing that Warri’s true strength lies not in division but in unity, empathy, and a collective resolve to rebuild trust among its people.