Warri constituency delineation: HURIWA commends INEC for upholding democracy

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its exemplary conduct in the recent delineation of wards and polling units within the Warri Federal Constituency, which covers Warri South, Warri West, and Warri South-West Local Government Areas in Delta State.

Describing the delineation exercise as “a milestone in Nigeria’s democratic evolution,” HURIWA praised INEC’s strict adherence to the rule of law and constitutionalism, especially in implementing the Supreme Court judgment delivered on December 2, 2022.

The judgment had mandated a fresh and credible delineation of the Warri Federal Constituency to reflect the true demographic realities and political representation of the area.

In a statement endorsed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA noted that the electoral commission’s courage, transparency, and strategic engagement with stakeholders during the delineation process signal a refreshing departure from the culture of impunity and political manipulation that has historically characterised Nigeria’s electoral framework.

“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 ensuring that this delineation process was inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the diversity in Warri Federal Constituency,” the group stated.

HURIWA particularly praised INEC for involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives of the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw ethnic nationalities in the presentation of the delineation report.

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This deliberate engagement, the association said, affirms INEC’s recognition of grassroots legitimacy and its growing responsiveness to the aspirations of all Nigerian citizens, especially those historically sidelined in political arrangements.

According to HURIWA, the allocation of 10 wards to the Ijaw people in Warri North, as well as equitable representation across other ethnic nationalities, is a courageous step toward dismantling entrenched marginalisation. The group added that, for far too long, political boundaries in Delta State have disproportionately favoured certain groups at the expense of others, creating avoidable inter-communal tensions and undermining electoral justice.

“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 exercises in Nigeria. For the first time in decades, communities in the Warri Federal Constituency can breathe a collective sigh of relief, knowing that their votes will count equally and their identities will no longer be suppressed under arbitrary administrative designs,” HURIWA stated.

The association also lauded the peaceful demonstrations held by members of the Ijaw ethnic group in support of the delineation.

According to HURIWA, the peaceful nature of the protests signals a maturing democratic ethos among the Nigerian electorate—one 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 (DSS), and other law enforcement agencies to provide security for INEC officials and the communities affected, and to clamp down on any instigators of violence or ethnic hatred resulting from the delineation.

“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,” HURIWA stated.

HURIWA further reaffirmed its support for electoral reforms that promote inclusivity, justice, and equal representation across Nigeria, noting that democracy thrives not just through periodic elections but through structural justice and administrative fairness—values that INEC has now demonstrated in Warri.

“This delineation is a triumph of justice over manipulation, of fairness over suppression. It gives hope to marginalised communities all over Nigeria that change is possible within the framework of the rule of law. We applaud INEC for doing the right thing. This is the pathway to a stronger, fairer Nigeria,” HURIWA said.