Prince Emmanuel Botu has called for unity among the people and communities of Izon, Itsekiri and Urhobo in Delta State.

Botu, a former head of surveillance, pipeline monitoring, petroleum adulteration and crude oil theft, in a statement, said a reconciliation was necessary for a united and progressive Delta State.

He called on the Izon, Itsekiri and Urhobo people to turn from conflict and toward cooperation, championing a future defined not by tribal rifts but by mutual prosperity.

“Today, I speak to you not as one divided by tribe, boundary, or tradition—but as one of you, united by a shared heritage, a common struggle, and an even greater potential,” Botu said.

“We are children of the river, born to the rhythms of the tides, cradled by creeks, and nourished by the same mangroves that stretch from one island to the next.”

Botu lamented how the very lands and waters that once connected both groups have too often become flashpoints of division.

“Why must we, blessed with a vast archipelago of riverine islands, scatter our energies fighting over a sliver of space, while boundless opportunities lie untouched just beyond our reach?” he asked.

Botu urged both groups to recognize the potential that lies in partnership. He pointed to the numerous islands dotting their waterways—not as contested turf, but as untapped treasure.

“These islands, scattered like pearls across our waterways, are not obstacles or boundaries. They are gifts. They are spaces for agriculture, for tourism, for fish farming, for trade, education and the blue economy—each one a canvas for economic transformation and cultural celebration.

“Why quarrel over one market square when we can build ten more along our waterways? Why contest a strip of land when we can jointly develop entire islands into thriving hubs of prosperity?” he asked, challenging both communities to reframe their priorities.

He painted a vivid picture of a collaborative future: floating schools, riverine resorts, fish processing industries, and cultural festivals that draw attention from across Nigeria and beyond.

“Together, the Izon’s, the Itsekiri’s and the Urhobo’s can build… Let us dream bigger than our disputes.”

Prince Botu’s message was directed not only to elders and leaders but also to the youth, urging every generation to play a role in the work of rebuilding relationships and reconstructing the region.

“The future does not belong to those who cling to grudges; it belongs to those who build. We must begin to see one another not as rivals, but as partners. Partners in progress. Partners in peace. Partners in purpose.”

To the elders, he appealed: “Lend your wisdom not to deepen the divides, but to mend them.” To the youth: “Channel your energy not into conflict, but into creativity and cooperation.

“Lead not from the trenches of tribalism, but from the frontlines of development.

“The river does not choose sides; it flows for all. Let us, too, flow together—with one heart, one voice, and one vision: to make our riverine region a model for unity, growth, and greatness.”