Government Ekpemupolo, the ex-militant leader now chairing Tantita Security Services, has warned against allowing protests over ward delineation in Warri to spiral into violence.
Tensions have mounted as INEC struggles to complete the delineation of wards and polling units in the constituency. Ekpemupolo, widely known as Tompolo, fears the situation could destabilize the Niger Delta region.
"The Ijaw nation has from time immemorial been known for its peaceful ways, and we cannot deviate from our history," he stated on Tuesday.
Women and youths have been peacefully occupying oil and gas installations across the Escravos and Warri River areas since June 8, 2026. They're demanding implementation of the Warri Federal Constituency delineation report.
Tompolo called for restraint among all three ethnic groups—Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo—living in Warri. He emphasized that peace was the only viable path forward.
"I am calling for calm no matter the situation," the security chief told supporters. He stressed the need for urgent action from community leaders.
According to him, leaders must convene immediately to chart a way forward. Joint action from all sides could resolve the impasse peacefully.
He also directed his message at INEC. The electoral body must act responsibly and take steps to restore public confidence in the process.
"INEC must determine to do the right thing and restore peace in Warri and environs," Tompolo noted. He appealed to residents to exercise patience while the commission completes its work.
Officials worry that prolonged tensions could threaten social stability in the oil-rich region. Economic activities could be disrupted if the situation worsens.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had already intervened on Monday. He convened a high-level meeting bringing together leaders of the three ethnic nationalities.
All parties agreed to lay down their arms at that gathering. They committed to maintaining peace for residents across the constituency.
Tompolo's latest appeal aligns with the governor's earlier push for calm. Both leaders recognize the stakes involved in keeping the region stable.
Calls for a peaceful resolution have come from multiple quarters. Many well-meaning Nigerians have joined the chorus urging all sides to exercise restraint.
Tompolo's intervention carries significant weight in the Niger Delta. His transition from militancy to security work gives him unique standing among stakeholders.
The constituency delineation exercise remains at the heart of the dispute. Until INEC resolves this, tensions will likely persist in the area.
Community leaders face mounting pressure to keep grievances from boiling over. Any misstep could trigger the unrest both Tompolo and Oborevwori have cautioned against.
