A leader in Diebiri Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, Chief Henry Souware, has expressed appreciation to High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, and other prominent Ijaw leaders and stakeholders for their contributions towards the successful implementation of the re-delineation exercise in the Warri Federal Constituency by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Chief Souware, in an appreciation message, described the development as a significant milestone in the political history of the Ijaw people of Warri Federal Constituency, saying the exercise has brought what he termed “political freedom” and strengthened the opportunity for equitable representation.

According to the Diebiri chief, the development is the product of years of perseverance, strategic engagement, unity of purpose and commitment by leaders and stakeholders who remained steadfast in pursuing a fair political arrangement for the indigenous ethnic nationalities in the constituency.

He particularly commended Tompolo for what he described as his leadership, courage, sacrifices and sustained commitment towards the advancement of the Ijaw people, noting that his contributions to peace, unity and development across Ijaw communities have continued to yield positive results.

“This is a historic moment for our people. We appreciate High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, and all our respected traditional rulers, leaders, stakeholders, youths, women and everyone who remained committed to the struggle for fair representation.

“The political freedom we celebrate today did not come without sacrifices, patience, consultations and persistent engagement. Our appreciation goes to everyone whose efforts contributed to making this possible,” Chief Souware stated.

Chief Souware also extended his appreciation to traditional rulers, community leaders, political stakeholders, youth and women leaders, activists and other individuals who contributed in various capacities towards the process.

He further commended INEC for carrying out its constitutional responsibilities concerning the re-delineation exercise, while urging stakeholders across the Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic groups in Warri Federal Constituency to embrace peaceful coexistence and work collectively for the development of the area.

The Diebiri leader stressed that the outcome should not be regarded as a victory against any ethnic nationality but as an opportunity to strengthen political inclusion, fairness and peaceful democratic participation among the people of the constituency.

He urged Ijaw people in the constituency to reciprocate the sacrifices of their leaders by remaining united, politically conscious and peaceful, stressing that the gains of the re-delineation should translate into stronger participation in governance and sustainable development of riverine communities.

Chief Souware also called on political leaders to take advantage of the development to promote infrastructure, education, employment opportunities, human capital development and other initiatives capable of improving the living conditions of the people.

He prayed for continued wisdom, strength and good health for Tompolo and all leaders working for the peace, progress and development of the Ijaw nation, Delta State and the Niger Delta region.