AN Ijaw opinion leader, Prince Col­lins Eselemo said this is not the time for the communities to trade blames, add­ing that the two warring communities should sheath their swords and embrace peace.

According to him, the communities are close neighbours who have been liv­ing peacefully with each other over the years. “I am surprised that both com­munities have suddenly taken up arms against each other a situation which I would describe as unpleasant and un­healthy”, the Ijaw leader stressed.

Eselemo, a top APC chieftain and former governorship aspirant in the state therefore, called on Governor Ifeanyi Okowa to take a bold step to­wards ensuring that there is peace at all times.

He however, commended the security agents, led by the Warri Area Com­mander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Muazu Mohammed for acting swiftly to bring the riotous situation under control.

He pleaded with Aladja leaders to prevail on their youths to embrace peace and harmony, adding, “They (Aladja) should know that Ogbe-Ijoh citizens are their brothers and sisters.

In the same vein, the President-general, Izon Ebe Oil Producing Communities Forum, Elder Moses Edougha also called for understanding between the two communities by ensuring that peace reigns at all times.

“Aladja and Ogbe-Ijoh are one indivisible entity. They have been living in peace and even inter-married. I see no reason why both communities now see each other as enemies”, lamented the Ijaw forum boss.

Whle calling on the warring communities to eschew bitterness and rancour, Edogha further enjoined them to bury the hatchet and continue to be their broth­ers’ keeper.