Introduction to the Crisis
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is facing pressure from concerned youths from the Niger Delta, under the aegis of Operation Rescue Ijaw Nation Crusaders (ORINC), to release and implement the Warri Federal Constituency ward delineation report ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Call for Action
The group made the call during a peaceful protest at INEC headquarters in Abuja, warning that continued delay could undermine electoral activities in the constituency and heighten tension in the Niger Delta region. Speaking on behalf of the protesters, ORINC’s Convener, Ellington Bakumo, recalled that the delineation exercise was conducted by INEC in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment directing the commission to redraw wards in Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South-West local council areas.
Background of the Delineation Exercise
Bakumo said the exercise involved representatives of all ethnic groups and communities in the three local councils, adding that INEC released a field report on April 4, 2025, but has yet to announce or implement the outcome. “With the 2027 elections approaching, we are growing increasingly impatient. INEC carried out the delineation itself, in partnership with all stakeholders, yet the final report has not been implemented,” he said.
Consequences of Delay
He warned that failure to act could affect participation in the 2027 elections in the constituency, stressing that the delay has stalled voter registration and other electoral processes in the area. The protesters also called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, describing the situation as a matter of fairness and justice capable of escalating into broader unrest if left unresolved.
Historical Context
Another speaker, Freeborn Ebimaye Abraye, said the Supreme Court ordered the delineation to correct alleged imbalances in the former 10-ward structure, which he claimed led to disenfranchisement and marginalisation of some ethnic groups in the constituency. According to him, INEC’s refusal to implement its report raises concerns about the commission’s commitment to upholding the court’s decision and ensuring credible elections.
Reaction from Other Stakeholders
Similarly, the Secretary of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) chapter, Johnny James, said the delay has fuelled suspicion and uncertainty among stakeholders, urging INEC to release the report to restore confidence and peace in the area.
Response from INEC
Responding on behalf of the commission, INEC Director of Security, Ndidi Okafor, who received the protesters’ petition, assured them that their concerns would be forwarded to the commission’s leadership, while urging them to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
Conclusion
The situation in Warri Federal Constituency highlights the importance of timely implementation of electoral reforms to prevent disputes and ensure the credibility of the electoral process. The youths’ call for action underscores the need for INEC to address the concerns of all stakeholders and work towards a free and fair election in 2027.
FAQs
- Q: What is the main demand of the Operation Rescue Ijaw Nation Crusaders (ORINC)?
A: The main demand is for INEC to release and implement the Warri Federal Constituency ward delineation report. - Q: Why was the delineation exercise conducted?
A: The exercise was conducted in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment to correct alleged imbalances in the former 10-ward structure. - Q: What are the potential consequences of INEC’s delay in implementing the report?
A: The delay could undermine electoral activities, heighten tension in the Niger Delta region, and affect participation in the 2027 elections. - Q: Who has been called upon to intervene in the situation?
A: President Bola Tinubu has been called upon to intervene to ensure fairness and justice. - Q: What was INEC’s response to the protesters?
A: INEC assured the protesters that their concerns would be forwarded to the commission’s leadership and urged them to remain peaceful and law-abiding.
