The Itsekiri Grassroot Coalition has called for a united political front among Itsekiri people across Delta and Edo states, stressing that collective action is critical to their political survival and relevance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group said the political challenges confronting the Itsekiri ethnic
nationality since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999 have largely stemmed
from structural imbalances, including ward delineation, minority status in
several local government areas, and contested electoral arrangements in the
Warri axis.
Addressing journalists, National Coordinator of the group, Prince
Collins Edema, noted that despite the widespread presence of Itsekiri
communities beyond Warri, their political strength has been weakened by
fragmentation and lack of coordinated engagement across Delta Central, Delta
South, and Edo State.
He explained that the coalition was formed to bridge this gap by
bringing all Itsekiri communities under one umbrella, ensuring that their
collective interests are represented in political negotiations and electoral
processes across the affected regions.
Edema said, “Our people are spread across multiple local governments
where we exist as minorities. Without a united front, our voices will continue
to be drowned. This coalition is about political survival, equity, and ensuring
that our presence translates into real representation.”
On inter-ethnic relations, the group extended a hand of fellowship to
neighbouring ethnic nationalities, particularly the Urhobo and Ijaw, insisting
that cooperation, rather than conflict, would yield better outcomes for all
parties involved.
“We want to make it clear that we have more in common with the Urhobo
and Ijaw than what divides us. It is time to move away from suspicion and
rivalry and embrace fairness, mutual respect, and genuine brotherhood in the
interest of sustainable development.”
While reaffirming support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Delta
State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori ahead of 2027, the coalition maintained that
it is still consulting on candidates for key legislative positions, vowing to
back individuals who align with the broader interests and unity of the Itsekiri
people.
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