Ijaw and Urhobo leaders of Warri Federal Constituency have issued a stern warning to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, cautioning him not to mistake their peaceful disposition for weakness regarding the ongoing INEC delineation process.

The warning came during a joint press briefing at the Major Jasper Isaac Adaka Boro Day celebration held at Tunde Smooth Playground in Warri, Delta State on Friday.

Chief Monday Keme, speaking on behalf of both ethnic groups, expressed concerns about the NSA's recent invitation for a roundtable discussion with the Ijaws, Itsekiris, and Urhobos of Warri.

"The recent invitation by the NSA's office for a roundtable discussion with the Ijaws, Itsekiris and Urhobos of Warri must be done with caution, as Chief Ayiri Emami, a self-acclaimed Ologbotsere of Warri, had earlier boasted openly in a press conference that he has the ears of the NSA and true to his talk our people have been invited," Keme stated.

The joint statement further questioned the involvement of the NSA's office in matters concerning the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). "In any case, what does the Office of NSA have to do with INEC? We hope this is not a ploy to aid a particular nationality over others. That would not be in the interest of Nigeria and our democratic journey," the statement read.

While the leaders did not explicitly state what they believe the outcome of the meeting might be, they strongly warned those attending not to compromise on anything that could "subvert the genuine decision of INEC."

The concerns raised by the Ijaw and Urhobo leaders highlight ongoing tensions regarding constituency delineation in the Warri area, a process that falls under INEC's constitutional mandate to review electoral boundaries.

The leaders' statement suggests they fear potential interference that might favor one ethnic group over others in the politically sensitive Delta region, where ethnic relations have historically been delicate.

As of press time, there has been no official response from the Office of the National Security Adviser regarding these allegations.