Scores injured as Itsekiri, Urhobo youths clash in Warri

There was chaos on Saturday  in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State as Itsekiri and Urhobo youths engaged in violent clashes, leaving scores injured and disrupting commercial activities in the oil-rich city.

The first confrontation broke out around 5:30 p.m. near the busy Ibo Market/Okere Road, where Itsekiri youths were allegedly attacked by youths from Agbara, an Urhobo community. At about the same time, a similar fracas occurred at Okere Market, a border area between the two ethnic groups.

Both sides reportedly wielded dangerous weapons, including cutlasses, clubs, and firearms, as the violence escalated. Panic spread quickly, forcing traders to shut their shops and residents to remain indoors. Security operatives from the Nigeria Police and the Nigerian Army struggled to restore order.

Reacting to the unrest, Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori called for caution and urged all sides to shun violence.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary,  Festus Ahon, the governor appealed to residents and stakeholders to protect the fragile peace in Warri. He emphasized that his administration is committed to revitalizing infrastructure in the city, noting that peace is essential to unlocking its economic potential.

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“We appeal to all stakeholders to support our efforts in revitalising infrastructure in Warri and avoid all acts capable of truncating the current peace in the oil-rich city,” the governor said.

Oborevwori also urged community leaders, youth groups, and opinion leaders to work together to foster unity and peaceful coexistence. He reiterated his administration’s resolve to promote inclusive governance and equitable development across Delta State, assuring that security agents remain on the ground to maintain peace and order.