The Warri Indigenous Peoples Movement (WIPM) has dissociated the Itsekiri Ethnic nationality from recent protests demanding the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engr. Bayo Ojulari.
In a statement read by its General Secretary, Comrade Monoyo Edon, the WIPM clarified that the Itsekiri people had no involvement in the planning or execution of the Abuja protest, nor were they consulted beforehand.
“We wish to clarify, unequivocally, that the Itsekiri Ethnic Nationality is not involved in any protest or campaign calling for the removal of Engr. Bayo Ojulari,” Edon stated, emphasizing the group’s commitment to unity and constructive dialogue in the Niger Delta.
The movement criticized the trend of ethnicizing and politicizing issues within the oil-producing region, warning that such approaches only deepen divisions among Niger Delta communities. According to the WIPM, national concerns—especially those relating to the vital oil and gas sector—must be approached responsibly and inclusively.
Highlighting the reforms introduced by Engr. Ojulari since his appointment, WIPM called for support and constructive engagement rather than confrontation. The group urged stakeholders to focus on policy improvements and systemic accountability, rather than targeting individuals based on ethnic or regional affiliations.
“Concerns about past decisions or policies of the NNPCL should be addressed through proper oversight and due process,” the statement noted, stressing the importance of transparency and fair scrutiny in leadership.
Reaffirming its confidence in Ojulari’s leadership, WIPM called for patience with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in the oil sector. The group expressed optimism that with collaborative efforts and good governance, the oil industry could achieve lasting efficiency and transparency for the benefit of both the Niger Delta and the country at large.
The WIPM concluded by appealing for unity among Niger Delta stakeholders and a shift towards dialogue, accountability, and sustainable development.
