By Oghenefejiro Emado
21 September 2025
The Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) has expressed concern over rising ethnic tensions in Warri, Delta State, particularly in the Warri South Local Government Area.
According to the statement issued by the Forum as signed by the Publicity Secretary, Mr. Oghenekparobo Ehvwubare, peace is crucial for unity, development, and coexistence in the region.
DOPF reminded stakeholders that the International Day of Peace, commemorated every September 21, with this year’s theme: “Act Now for a Peaceful World.” is quite on point in Delta State.
The statement emphasised the United Nations take which says peace is not a distant aspiration but a present responsibility requiring urgent action from individuals, communities, traditional institutions and governments alike.
Given the state’s existing insecurity issues, DOPF warns that escalating ethnic tensions in Warri, a key commercial hub, could have severe socio-economic consequences.
The Forum also appealed to youths, community leaders, and stakeholders to act with restraint, reminding them conflict leaves scars that take decades to heal, while peace strengthens unity and attracts growth and prosperity.
“Warri has long been the economic and social heartbeat of Delta State. Allowing ethnic tensions to escalate in such a vital hub is unacceptable.
The path to lasting peace lies in dialogue, inclusivity, and mutual understanding. As we observe this year’s International Day of Peace, we are reminded to ‘act now for a peaceful world’—choosing conversation over conflict, tolerance over division, and unity over discord,” the statement concluded.
Key Points:*
– *Call for Dialogue:* DOPF urges the Delta State Government, security agencies, and traditional institutions to promote dialogue, inclusivity, and proactive engagement to sustain peace.
– *Restraint and Responsibility:* The forum appeals to youths, community leaders, and stakeholders to act with restraint, highlighting that conflicts can leave lasting scars, while peace fosters unity and attracts growth.
– *International Day of Peace:* DOPF cites this year’s theme, “Act Now for a Peaceful World,” emphasizing the need for urgent action from individuals, communities, and governments to maintain peace.
– *Economic Importance of Warri:* The forum stresses that Warri is the economic and social heartbeat of Delta State, making it imperative to prevent ethnic tensions from escalating
