The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified that it is yet to take a definitive decision on the contentious issue of ward delineation within the Warri Federal Constituency, comprising Warri North, Warri South, and Warri South West Local Government Areas of Delta State. This clarification comes in response to mounting speculation and media reports suggesting that INEC had reached a final verdict, following the Supreme Court’s directive issued in December 2022.
In an official statement released on Thursday, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, described such reports as premature and misleading. He emphasized that while significant progress had been made, including extensive consultations and rigorous fieldwork, the Commission is still in the process of gathering and reviewing feedback before arriving at a conclusive decision.
According to Olumekun, a draft report was presented to stakeholders during a recent engagement session held in Warri last week. The session, attended by traditional rulers, community leaders, political party representatives, civil society groups, and other concerned stakeholders, was aimed at fostering inclusiveness and ensuring that all voices are heard in the delineation process.
He stressed the importance of submitting formal observations, suggestions, and grievances through appropriate channels, rather than resorting to actions capable of disrupting public peace or undermining the credibility of the exercise.
“INEC is committed to upholding the rule of law, fairness, and transparency in all its undertakings. The delineation of constituencies is a critical part of ensuring equitable representation, and we urge all parties to be patient and engage constructively with the process,” Olumekun stated.
The Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling had directed INEC to address the long-standing issues surrounding the delineation of the Warri Federal Constituency, a matter that has sparked political tensions and ethnic concerns over perceived imbalances in representation. For decades, stakeholders in the region have raised alarms over the alleged marginalization of certain ethnic groups and communities in the allocation of wards, which directly impacts political appointments, developmental interventions, and resource allocation.
As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the resolution of this delineation issue is viewed as pivotal to ensuring peace and electoral inclusiveness in the Niger Delta region. Several community-based organizations and political leaders have already expressed cautious optimism, urging INEC to handle the process with utmost sensitivity and professionalism.
Meanwhile, INEC has reiterated its appeal for continued calm and cooperation, assuring the public that every step taken will be in line with constitutional mandates and guided by the principles of justice, equity, and peaceful coexistence.
As consultations continue, all eyes remain on INEC to deliver a decision that not only complies with the apex court’s ruling but also satisfies the long-standing yearnings of the diverse communities within Warri’s political landscape.