WARRI/Nigeria: Renowned peace ambassador, development advocate and Niger Delta leader, Comrade Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has raised concern over growing tension in Warri and its environs, urging residents and political stakeholders to reject ethnic sentiments and embrace peace, unity and development.
Mulade, who was a candidate in the recently concluded National Democratic Congress (NDC) party primaries, expressed displeasure over what he described as attempts by some individuals to inflame ethnic passions, engage in blackmail and make provocative statements over the outcome of the primary election instead of focusing on preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The peace advocate warned that divisive rhetoric and actions capable of undermining the long-standing coexistence among the various ethnic groups in Warri could threaten the peace and stability needed for meaningful development in the area.
In a statement, Mulade stressed that Warri, regarded as the commercial nerve centre of Delta State, requires an atmosphere of harmony and cooperation to attract investment, stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities for the teeming youth population.
The Ibe-Sorimowei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom in Warri South-West Local Government Area commended the Itsekiri, Ijaw, Urhobo and other residents of Warri Federal Constituency for maintaining peace and demonstrating maturity despite what he described as provocative comments and acts of incitement from some quarters.
According to him, the continued peaceful coexistence among the people remains more important than any personal political ambition.
“Peace in Warri and its environs is far more important than my personal aspirations. The collective interest of our people and the sustainable development of the area must always come first,” he stated.
Mulade appealed to residents to shun ethnic bias, hatred and divisive tendencies capable of triggering conflict, emphasizing that unity remains the strongest foundation for progress and prosperity.
He further called on the people of Warri and neighbouring communities to deepen collaboration across ethnic and political lines and support efforts aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and social stability.
The development advocate also urged residents to complement the developmental initiatives of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori by fostering an environment conducive to the delivery of infrastructure and other dividends of democracy across Warri and its surrounding communities.
He maintained that no society can achieve meaningful progress in an atmosphere of crisis and instability, noting that peace remains a prerequisite for sustainable development.
“It is imperative to state that no meaningful development can be achieved amidst crisis and conflict,” Mulade asserted.
He therefore urged political actors, community leaders and stakeholders to place the interests of the people above personal and sectional considerations, insisting that the future of Warri depends on the ability of its diverse ethnic groups to live and work together in peace and mutual respect.
