WARRI/ Nigeria: In a bid to accelerate progress in the oil-rich Niger Delta region of Nigeria, Chief (Comrade) Mulade Sheriff, a prominent environmental and peace advocate, has issued a compelling call for unity and solidarity between the Itsekiris and the Ijaws residing in Delta State.
Chief Mulade made an impassioned plea on Wednesday in Warri, responding to a recent petition forwarded to President Bola Tinubu on behalf of the Omadino Community. The petition addressed concerns regarding the establishment of the Nigerian Maritime University in Okerenkoko, as opposed to the claimed location, Okerenghigho, prompting the community’s appeal for intervention from the President and the Nigerian Senate.
This petition, represented by individuals such as Edward Omagbemi, Oritseweyinmi Emmanuel Aginejuone, and Tsaye Edeyibo-Mene, through the legal representation of Robinson Ariyo and Co in Warri, Delta State, emphasized the need for adherence to the rule of law. They specifically referenced to a Supreme Court ruling in the case of James Uluba and Ors vs Chief E.E. Sillo and Others (1972), highlighting the usage of the name “Okerenghigho” over “Okerenkoko.”
As the Ibe Serimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom and an esteemed advocate for peaceful coexistence, Chief Mulade underscored the imperative for unity among the Niger Delta people. He cautioned against actions that could breed discord, emphasizing the urgent necessity for overall regional development amidst neglect and marginalization.
“It is crucial to note that the Ijaws and Itsekiris contribute approximately 80 percent of the state’s revenue, yet our communities and local government headquarters remain devoid of federal or state government presence due to internal divisions and animosity,” remarked Chief Mulade.
Referring to the detrimental impact of previous conflicts, particularly the Warri crisis, he stressed the shared history of coexistence between the Ijaws and the Itsekiris. “Our interconnectedness dictates that what affects one community inevitably impacts the other. Therefore, fostering division within our midst is not in the best interest of our people,” he asserted.
He urged the Omadino people, specifically the Itsekiri Nation, to prioritize peace and collaboration with their neighbors for the holistic development of the area. “Let us not allow opportunists to exploit our resources through conflict. When familial discord arises, outsiders often seize the opportunity to benefit,” he cautioned.
His call reverberated with a plea for collective action, emphasizing that unity and collaboration were the fundamental pillars necessary to propel the Niger Delta region towards sustainable development.
In conclusion, Chief Mulade Sheriff reiterated his appeal for peace, solidarity, and a collaborative approach among the Itsekiris and the Ijaws, advocating that only through unity could the region overcome its challenges and achieve its full potential.
