Political leaders in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State have issued a cautionary statement, urging security operatives to intervene and curb the brewing ethnic tension caused by the term “Wado City.” The call came after an emergency meeting convened by the local government council Chairman, Dr. Michael Tidi, with members representing Warri South Constituency 1 and 2 in the Delta State House of Assembly, Honorable Augustine Uroye and Benson Obire, along with leaders of Okere, Agbarha, and security agencies.
Stakeholders at the meeting, which included Delta State Commissioner for Youth Development, Mr. Weyinmi Agbateyiniro, and Special Adviser to Governor Oborevwori on Niger Delta Affairs, Hon. Griftson Omatsuli, strongly warned against the use of the name “Wado City” to describe any part of Warri South Local Government. They emphasized that the term is unrecognized by local, state, and federal governments and urged those behind it to cease the practice immediately.
Dr. Tidi, the local government chairman, also urged security operatives to arrest anyone found erecting billboards in any part of Warri South Local Government Area bearing the name “Wado City.” The issue has sparked reactions and debates, with some individuals claiming that “Wado City” covers a specific area in Warri South Local Government that they wish to rename. This move has raised concerns about the potential for ethnic tension in the already delicate region.
Residents in Warri South echoed these concerns, appealing to those promoting the term “Wado City” to abandon it, as it could reignite ethnic conflicts that had previously led to companies relocating from the area. The residents emphasized the importance of sustaining the newfound investor confidence in Warri to ensure its continued development.