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Police Invite Itsekiri Chiefs Over Ugborodo Unrest

Zone 5 police in Benin City summoned 18 people over allegations of conspiracy, arson and incitement following Emiko Onuwaje's killing.

13 January 2026 1 min read
Composite of four men wearing white traditional attire, hats and coral bead necklaces at separate ceremonial events

The Nigeria Police has invited several prominent Itsekiri chiefs and community leaders for questioning following renewed tension in Warri Kingdom linked to the killing of Emiko Onuwaje on December 20, 2025.

Those invited include the Ologbotsere of Warri, Oma Eyewuoma, Hon. (Chief) Thomas Ereyitomi, Mr Ayirimi Emami, Chief Eugene Ikomi, and Chief John Okpeyo Daje, alongside 13 other individuals. The invitations were issued by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 5, Benin City.

Police letters sighted indicated that the invitations are connected to allegations ranging from conspiracy and arson to incitement of communal violence, threats to life, and actions likely to breach public peace across parts of Warri Kingdom.

Mr Emami and Hon. (Chief) Ereyitomi were asked to report to the Zone 5 headquarters at 10:00 a.m. on January 14, 2026, while others were scheduled for separate interview sessions on the same day in connection with related allegations.

The development has heightened attention on the crisis in Ugborodo, as security agencies intensify investigations to prevent further violence and hold accountable anyone found to have contributed to the unrest.

CategoryNews
Written byWeyinmi O

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