…Tompolo sues for restraint
Prominent Niger Delta leader High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has called for restraint following the occupation of oil and gas facilities in Escravos and the Warri River area by protesting women and youths.
The protests, which began on June 8, 2026, are over INEC’s failure to complete ward delineation in Warri Federal Constituency. The dispute has heightened tension across the area and drawn national attention.
In a statement on Monday, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation said the mass action must remain peaceful and should not be hijacked or turned violent.
“We are all witnesses to the mass action by peaceful women and youths occupying oil and gas installations since yesterday. Many Nigerians have called for a peaceful resolution, and I join them in that call,” Tompolo said.
He noted that the Ijaw people have a long history of peaceful coexistence and urged residents not to undermine that legacy.
Tompolo blamed the crisis on INEC’s delay in concluding the delineation exercise. He said the controversy must be resolved through dialogue, not violence.
“I am calling for calm under all circumstances. I am also convening an urgent meeting of community leaders to chart a way forward. We must all work together to resolve this impasse,” he stated.
The Tantita Security Services chairman appealed to INEC to act swiftly to complete the process and restore peace in Warri and environs.
“I urge INEC to do the right thing and bring peace to Warri,” he said.
Tompolo further called on all residents of Warri Federal Constituency – Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo – to exercise restraint and allow due process to take its course.
The standoff continues as stakeholders await INEC’s next move on the delineation exercise, which directly affects political representation in the area.