The Independent National Electoral Commission has been commended by the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria for its excellent performance in the recent delineation of wards and polling places within the Warri Federal Constituency, which includes the Warri South, Warri West, and Warri South-West Local Government Areas in Delta State. HURIWA characterized the delineation exercise as “a milestone in Nigeria’s democratic evolution” and praised INEC’s rigorous adherence to constitutionalism and the rule of law, particularly in carrying out the Supreme Court’s December 2, 2022 ruling. The ruling required a new and credible delineation of the Warri Federal Constituency to reflect the actual demographic realities and political representation of the region, according to a statement signed by HURIWA National Coordinator Emmanuel Onwubiko and made available to PUNCH Online on Thursday. “The Independent National Electoral Commission has not only complied with the letter and spirit of the Supreme Court ruling but has demonstrated genuine fidelity to democratic values by making sure that this delineation process was inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the diversity in Warri Federal Constituency,” HURIWA said in a statement published on Thursday.
HURIWA specifically commended INEC for presenting the delineation report with participation from representatives of the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw ethnic nations, as well as traditional rulers and community leaders.
According to the group, this intentional involvement demonstrates INEC’s acceptance of grassroots legitimacy and its increasing receptivity to the goals of all Nigerians, particularly those who have traditionally been marginalized in political agreements.
The distribution of 10 wards to the Ijaw in Warri North, along with equal representation for other ethnic nationalities, is a brave move to end long-standing marginalization, according to HURIWA.
“The courage shown by INEC in correcting historical imbalances in political representation is commendable and exemplary. It sets a new benchmark for the conduct of boundary reviews and delineation activities in Nigeria. Communities in Warri Federal Constituency may now exhale collectively for the first time in decades, knowing that their votes will be counted equitably and that their identities will no longer be hidden by capricious administrative schemes, according to HURIWA.
The Ijaw ethnic group’s nonviolent protests in favor of the delineation were also praised by the association.
HURIWA said the peaceful nature of the protests signals a maturing democratic ethos among the Nigerian electorate, one which is marked not by violence or confrontation, but by constructive engagement and lawful expression.
“We salute the Ijaw people for their civilised demonstration of support for INEC. This is a beautiful example of democratic activism anchored in peace and principle. It contrasts sharply with the culture of political thuggery and voter suppression that we often see during election cycles,” HURIWA added.
While praising INEC’s boldness and professionalism, HURIWA urged the Commission to remain vigilant in safeguarding the gains of this process.
The group warned against any attempts by political actors to subvert the outcomes of the delineation through backdoor manoeuvres, intimidation, or misinformation campaigns.
“We are aware of elements that may seek to undermine this great stride by INEC for selfish political reasons. We urge the Commission to stand firm. The integrity of this process must be protected at all costs,” the group warned.
HURIWA also called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other law enforcement agencies to provide security for INEC officials and the communities affected.
“INEC must be allowed to perform its constitutional duties without fear, interference, or political pressure. We urge the security agencies to support INEC in maintaining peace and order in Delta State.This distinction is a victory of fairness over repression and justice over manipulation. It provides underprivileged communities across Nigeria hope that, within the bounds of the rule of law, change is achievable. We commend INEC for acting morally. This is the key to a more powerful and equitable Nigeria,” HURIWA said.
About The Author
