The Oroupawei of the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, High Chief Wellington Bobo, has appealed to prominent Itsekiri leaders to caution their youths against making what he described as "provocative statements" and engaging in actions capable of undermining the long-standing peaceful relationship between the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities in Delta State.

High Chief Bobo statement is coming amid growing concerns over developments in Ijaghala Community in the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of the state.

The elder statesman expressed concern over what he alleged was the encroachment on the Ijaw community by some Itsekiri youths, stressing that the identity and territorial integrity of every community should be respected in the interest of lasting peace and harmonious coexistence.

The respected Ijaw leader described as inappropriate the alleged attempt by some Itsekiri youths to inaugurate an executive committee in Ijaghala, arguing that such actions amounted to interference in the internal affairs of a community to which they do not belong.

He called on respected Itsekiri elders and opinion leaders, particularly Chief Emmanuel Okotie-Eboh, whom he described as a personal friend and statesman, to intervene by prevailing on the youths to desist from actions capable of escalating tensions in the area.

He stressed that the prevailing peace in Delta State should not be sacrificed because of political or ethnic disagreements, urging leaders of both the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities to continue embracing dialogue, mutual respect and understanding as the foundation for sustainable coexistence.

"The prevailing atmosphere of peace in Delta State must not be sacrificed on the altar of political or ethnic disagreements," he warned.

He therefore called on all stakeholders to reject inflammatory rhetoric and actions capable of fuelling ethnic tension, insisting that enduring development in Warri and the wider Niger Delta can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace, cooperation and respect for the rights, history and territorial integrity of all communities.

"I therefore urge leaders from both the Ijaw and Itsekiri ethnic nationalities to continue promoting dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding as the foundation for sustainable coexistence," he added.