Tompolo calls for calm as women, youths occupy oil facilities in Warri axis

Prominent Ijaw leader and Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has appealed to women and youths occupying oil and gas installations in the Escravos and Warri River areas of Delta State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Tompolo said Nigerians had witnessed since June 8, 2026, the mass action by peaceful protesters from various communities in the area, prompting widespread calls for dialogue and restraint.

He urged all parties involved to embrace peace and avoid actions that could escalate tensions in the oil-producing region.

According to Tomolo, the Ijaw people have historically been known for their peaceful disposition and should not allow the current situation to degenerate into violence.

“The Ijaw nation has, from time immemorial, been known for their peaceful ways and we cannot deviate from our history,” he stated.

Tompolo attributed the current political tension to the failure of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to complete the delineation of wards in the Warri Federal Constituency, stressing that the resulting protests must not be hijacked by individuals seeking to foment trouble.

He called on community leaders across the area to convene an urgent meeting aimed at finding a peaceful pathway out of the impasse.

“I am calling for calm, no matter the situation. I am also calling for a meeting of community leaders to meet immediately to enable us devise a way forward. We must all join hands in seeking a peaceful resolution to this impasse,” he said.

The former Niger Delta militant leader further urged INEC to take the necessary steps to address the concerns surrounding the ward delineation exercise and restore peace in Warri and its environs.

He appealed to residents of the area, regardless of ethnic affiliation, to remain patient while awaiting the electoral body’s actions.

“We call on the people of Warri, whether Ijaw, Itsekiri or Urhobo, to be calm and wait patiently for INEC to do the right thing,” he added.