The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reacted to the recent protest by Itsekiri indigenes over the proposed ward delineation in Warri Federal Constituency, clarifying that no final decision has been taken on the matter and urging for continued peace in the area.
This response follows a tense demonstration on Wednesday, April 9, by Itsekiri men, women, and youths who stormed and shut down a 28,000 barrels per day crude oil facility in Ogidigben, Ugborodo, Warri South-West Local Government Area. The protesters expressed strong dissatisfaction with the draft proposal on ward delineation, which they described as “a grave injustice.”
The protesters, led by Hon. Raymond Amorighoye Pira, accused INEC of attempting to override a Supreme Court judgment and of betraying a sworn affidavit to halt the delineation process. Armed with placards bearing messages such as “INEC, this illegality will not stand” and “INEC, return our electoral wards”, the Itsekiris argued that the current proposal undermines their population and land ownership, and distorts historical ward boundaries.
However, in a press release dated April 10 and signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, INEC dismissed claims of finality in the delineation process. The Commission explained that it embarked on extensive stakeholder consultations from February 2023 to July 2024, followed by fieldwork in Warri North, Warri South, and Warri South-West LGAs.
According to INEC, a draft report was presented to stakeholders in Warri on Friday, April 4, 2025, for review and feedback. “The purpose was to give them the opportunity to raise any concerns they might have. The overall objective was to arrive at an amicable agreement endorsed by all the parties involved,” the statement read.
INEC stressed that the draft report remains open for further review, and it has not taken a final position on the delineation of wards. The Commission urged all stakeholders to submit their observations, assuring that the final decision will be rooted in fairness, equity, and the rule of law.
“We appeal to all stakeholders to refrain from engaging in any activity that could threaten the peace and security of the area,” Olumekun added.
The electoral body reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and inclusive consultation in the delineation process, emphasizing that its actions are guided by legal frameworks and court directives.
As the conversation continues, all eyes remain on the outcome of further deliberations and how INEC navigates the delicate balancing act of justice, representation, and peace in one of Delta State’s most politically sensitive regions.
