Odidi Youths, Women Reject Parallel Executive, Endorse Preye Okrikpa-Led Leadership
The Youth and Women Leaders of Odidi Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State have strongly condemned and rejected the purported swearing-in of what they described as a parallel executive within the community, insisting that the leadership led by Preye Okrikpa remains the only recognized executive pending the determination of ongoing court proceedings.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, May 15, 2026, and jointly signed by the Youth President of Odidi Community, Oyateide Joseph Hitler, and the Women Leader, Mrs. Nancy Ado Warebi, the groups described the alleged inauguration of another executive as unlawful, provocative, and capable of causing instability and disunity in the community.
According to the statement, the action does not reflect the collective interest or position of the youths, women, and the larger people of Odidi Community.
The leaders maintained that the Preye Okrikpa-led executive remains the legitimate leadership structure recognized by the community until all matters currently before the competent court of law are conclusively determined.
They warned that any attempt by individuals or groups to impose a parallel leadership on the community was unacceptable and capable of disrupting the peace the people have continued to sustain.
The statement further emphasized that Odidi Community belongs to all five quarters — Bosienumughan, Deribi, Keneyinbo, Gewele, and Tamiemene — stressing that the future of the community must not be sacrificed for personal interests or political desperation.
The youths and women also alleged attempts to discriminate against members of the Gewele family over their refusal to support what they described as efforts to “grab power by all means.”
Reaffirming their commitment to peace, unity, development, and the protection of the integrity of the community, the groups expressed concern over what they termed continuous efforts by some persons to create avoidable tension and conflict capable of dividing families, stakeholders, and workers within and outside the community.
They noted that such actions do not promote development, progress, or the welfare of the people.
The statement reminded all parties involved that no individual or group has the authority to undermine due process or establish a parallel authority while legal proceedings concerning the community leadership dispute are still pending before the court.
The youth and women leaders stressed that respect for the rule of law and constituted authority remains essential for lasting peace and stability in the community.
They therefore called on those behind the purported parallel executive to desist from further actions capable of misleading the public or escalating tensions within Odidi Community.
The groups also appealed to all parties to allow lawful processes and the court to resolve all pending disputes rather than resorting to actions capable of inciting unrest.
