CEPEJ peace initiative Warri launches committee and programmes to strengthen unity among Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities

The Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice on Thursday launched a broad-based peacebuilding initiative aimed at strengthening unity among Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo communities in Warri, Delta State.

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The initiative featured the inauguration of a Warri Indigenes and Residents Peacebuilding Committee, bringing together community leaders, government representatives, market unions, civil society groups, security agencies and non-indigenous residents in a coordinated effort to promote stability.

The newly constituted executive committee is chaired by Chuks Awogu, alongside Toriitseju Igbiaye, Eburu Emuaghogho, Erediegha Precious, Comrade Hilda Amogha and Mrs Hajara Abubakar in key leadership roles.

Speaking at the maiden meeting, National Coordinator of CEPEJ, Sheriff Mulade, said sustainable peace in Warri requires deliberate and inclusive engagement among stakeholders.

He emphasised the need for neutrality, effective communication and advocacy-driven approaches to reduce tensions.

“Lasting peace in Warri is achievable through deliberate efforts to de-escalate tensions, promote neutrality and strengthen information-sharing channels,” he said.

Mulade urged committee members to rise above ethnic divisions and prioritise fairness, noting that peace remains a critical pillar for development and social cohesion.

He also acknowledged the efforts of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, stressing that stability is essential for attracting investment and driving economic growth.

The CEPEJ peace initiative Warri includes a series of targeted programmes such as stakeholder training, community engagements, advocacy campaigns and inter-ethnic familiarisation visits designed to deepen dialogue and mutual understanding.

Reinforcing the call for commitment, Abbey Kalio, Coordinator of SID Warri, urged the committee to remain focused on its mandate, while CEPEJ Administrative Manager Tina Agidi outlined a structured roadmap for implementation.

Senior Programme Officer Samuel Ideh highlighted Warri’s long-standing tradition of coexistence, noting that peaceful collaboration has historically benefited all communities in the area.

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Describing the initiative as both timely and crucial, observers say the CEPEJ peace initiative Warri could help douse lingering tensions and lay a sustainable foundation for unity in the oil-rich city.