Oborevwori Warns Against Misuse of Social Media in Delta

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has issued a stern caution against the misuse of social media, warning that the digital platforms are being used to sow seeds of discord and instigate conflict in the state. Speaking at a funeral service for the late Mrs Grace Agbolayah at the African Church in Warri, the governor urged critics and members of the public, particularly those outside the state, to exercise restraint. His call for peace and unity comes against a backdrop of deep-seated ethnic tensions and recent political controversies that continue to test the fragile harmony of the region.

The governor’s warning is not a generic appeal but a direct response to recent events. Dependable NG has reported on a number of flashpoints that underscore the ongoing friction between the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic nationalities in Warri. In a recent incident, a near-clash was averted between the Ijaw and Itsekiri communities over the placement of billboards and banners celebrating a traditional coronation. The dispute over land ownership and political representation, which dates back to the devastating “Warri Crisis” of the late 1990s and early 2000s, has been reignited by seemingly minor issues, a pattern that underscores the deep-seated mistrust that still exists. Governor Oborevwori, having “witnessed crisis and I know its consequences,” is acutely aware that these seemingly small disputes can quickly spiral out of control, fueled by inflammatory messages and misinformation that are now amplified by social media.

In his address, the governor specifically called on parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against using social media for hate campaigns and spreading falsehoods. This plea acknowledges the role of the youth in modern-day conflict, where digital platforms are often the first battlefield. The ease with which unverified information and provocative messages can be shared on social media makes it a powerful tool for those seeking to exploit ethnic and political divides. Governor Oborevwori’s message is a reminder that while social media can be a force for good, it also carries the potential for immense harm if not used responsibly. The governor emphasized that unity remains the only path to sustainable development in Warri and Delta State at large. He called on leaders and elders of the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo ethnic groups to lead by example, shun divisive tendencies, and embrace peace.

The governor’s call for peace is inextricably linked to his administration’s ambitious development agenda. He reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Warri, noting that as Governor, he would not take sides but would serve the interests of all Deltans. “I want to develop Warri because this is my home, and some of the young people today have not enjoyed the Warri we experienced back then,” he said. This statement resonates deeply with residents who have longed for a return to the city’s glory days. Dependable NG confirms that Governor Oborevwori’s administration, under its M.O.R.E. Agenda, has initiated several key infrastructure projects aimed at transforming the state. These include the construction of flyovers and roads in Warri, as well as the ongoing renovation of the Warri Township Stadium. By focusing on tangible development and pledging to be a governor for all, he is attempting to tackle the root causes of the conflict, which often stem from a sense of marginalization and neglect. The governor’s warning against the misuse of social media is therefore not just a moral appeal, but a strategic move to create a stable environment where his development plans can be executed without the disruption of inter-communal conflict.