By Hope Okoh-Eze
In a region historically defined by ethnic rivalries, political tensions, and resource-related conflicts, few individuals have consistently dedicated themselves to building bridges across divides as much as Chief (Comrade) Sheriff Mulade, PhD. For decades, the Delta State-born peace ambassador, human rights activist, environmental advocate, and development campaigner has emerged as one of the strongest voices for peace, unity, and harmonious coexistence among the diverse ethnic nationalities that make up Warri Federal Constituency.
Comprising the Ijaw, Itsekiri, Urhobo, Isoko, and several other ethnic groups, Warri Federal Constituency occupies a strategic position in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. Rich in oil and gas resources, the area has unfortunately experienced periods of violent conflict, political disagreements, and communal crises that have often hindered development and strained relationships among communities.
Against this backdrop, Sheriff Mulade has distinguished himself as a relentless advocate for peace, consistently placing the collective interest of the people above personal, ethnic, or political considerations.
One of the defining characteristics of Mulade’s public life has been his unwavering commitment to peace, even during periods of heightened political and ethnic tension.
Recently, amid growing debates and controversies surrounding political developments and electoral matters within Warri Federal Constituency, Mulade publicly declared that peace in Warri is more important than his personal political ambition. The statement resonated widely across the constituency because it reflected a principle that has guided his actions throughout his career.
Rather than encouraging division or exploiting ethnic sentiments for political gain, Mulade has consistently urged residents to embrace unity and focus on sustainable development. His appeal to Ijaws, Itsekiris, Urhobos, and other ethnic groups to reject provocative statements and inflammatory rhetoric demonstrated the leadership qualities needed in a multi-ethnic society.
According to him, meaningful development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability. This philosophy has become a recurring theme in his interventions on issues affecting Warri and the wider Niger Delta region.
Perhaps one of Mulade’s most impactful contributions to peacebuilding has been the establishment and sponsorship of the Peace and Unity Football Tournament. Initiated through the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), the competition was conceived as a platform for fostering friendship, understanding, and cooperation among young people from different ethnic backgrounds.
Since its inception in 2017, the tournament has engaged and empowered over 1,200 youths drawn from Ijaw and Itsekiri communities. Over time, the initiative expanded to include participants from Urhobo and Isoko communities, transforming it into one of the most significant grassroots peacebuilding projects in Delta State.
The tournament goes beyond football. It serves as a meeting point where young people who might otherwise view one another through the lens of ethnic differences interact, build friendships, and develop mutual respect.
By using sports as a tool for peacebuilding, Mulade has demonstrated a practical understanding of conflict prevention. The initiative has helped reduce suspicion among communities while creating opportunities for talent discovery, youth empowerment, and social integration.
Many observers believe that the competition has contributed significantly to maintaining peaceful relations among communities that previously experienced tensions and disputes.
Beyond sports, Mulade has consistently championed dialogue as the most effective means of resolving conflicts. As National Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ), he has facilitated numerous engagements involving community leaders, youth groups, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and government agencies.
His approach is rooted in the belief that sustainable peace can only be achieved when all stakeholders are given opportunities to express their concerns and participate in decision-making processes.
This philosophy has enabled him to earn respect across ethnic and political divides. Whether addressing environmental challenges, youth issues, resource control concerns, or communal disputes, Mulade has remained committed to peaceful engagement rather than confrontation. His reputation as a mediator and bridge-builder has made him a trusted figure amongst many communities in the Niger Delta.
The issue of ward and polling unit delineation in Warri Federal Constituency remains one of the most sensitive political matters in Delta State. Recognising the potential implications of the Supreme Court-ordered delineation exercise, Mulade has repeatedly called for caution, transparency, and fairness in the implementation process.
Rather than exploiting the situation for political advantage, he has consistently appealed for calm and urged all parties to avoid actions capable of inflaming tensions.
His warning that delays or perceived injustice could reopen old wounds reflects an understanding of the constituency’s complex history and the devastating consequences of past conflicts.
Another notable aspect of Mulade’s peacebuilding efforts is his willingness to collaborate with government institutions and traditional authorities. He has encouraged cooperation between communities, security agencies, traditional rulers, and elected officials in addressing emerging challenges.
His recent commendation of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s efforts to maintain peace in Warri Federal Constituency reflects his belief that peacebuilding requires collective responsibility.
Rather than adopting a confrontational posture, Mulade frequently advocates partnerships and collaborative strategies aimed at preserving stability and promoting development. This approach has strengthened his credibility as a development advocate who prioritises solutions over political rhetoric.
Central to Mulade’s philosophy is the conviction that peace and development are inseparable.Throughout his advocacy work, he has repeatedly emphasised that communities cannot attract investments, create jobs, improve infrastructure, or enhance living standards in environments characterised by conflict.This perspective explains why many of his initiatives focus not only on preventing violence but also on creating opportunities for economic and social advancement.
By promoting peaceful coexistence among ethnic groups, Mulade seeks to create conditions that encourage business growth, youth employment, educational development, and infrastructural expansion across Warri Federal Constituency. His message is simple yet profound: peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the foundation upon which sustainable development is built.
While Mulade remains active in political and public affairs, his contributions to peacebuilding extend far beyond electoral contests and political ambitions. His work reflects a broader commitment to social harmony, community development, and inter-ethnic cooperation.
The numerous peace initiatives he has championed, the youth empowerment programmes he has supported, and the countless appeals for unity he has made over the years have helped shape a narrative of coexistence in a region often associated with conflict.
For many residents of Warri Federal Constituency, Mulade represents a model of leadership that prioritises dialogue over division, unity over hostility, and development over discord.
Most importantly, at a time when ethnic sentiments and political rivalries continue to challenge peaceful coexistence in many parts of Nigeria, Sheriff Mulade’s approach offers valuable lessons in leadership and conflict resolution. Through advocacy, sports diplomacy, community engagement, youth empowerment, and consistent calls for unity, he has played a significant role in promoting peace among the ethnic nationalities of Warri Federal Constituency.
His efforts remind residents that despite cultural differences and competing interests, the future of Warri depends on collaboration, mutual respect, and shared commitment to progress.
Finally, as the constituency continues to navigate political and developmental challenges, the enduring message championed by Sheriff Mulade remains clear: peace is not only desirable, but also indispensable for the prosperity and stability of Warri Federal Constituency and the Niger Delta at large.
Okoh-Eze is the Executive Director, Care Center for Sustainable Development Initiative (CCFSDI), a Lagos based Non-Government Organization (NGO).
