Ijaws, Urhobos urge INEC to conclude process based on lawful guidelines, field data

In a rare demonstration of ethnic unity, the Ijaw and Urhobo communities of Warri Federal Constituency have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to resist external pressures and finalize the ongoing delineation of electoral wards and polling units in Warri North, Warri South, and Warri South-West LGAs in strict adherence to legal procedures and field data.

Speaking at a joint press conference in Warri on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, key Ijaw and Urhobo leaders presented a united front, underscoring the importance of transparency, legal compliance, and the preservation of democratic integrity.

The leaders commended INEC for its recent field report, acknowledging it as an important step toward rectifying electoral imbalances and beginning the process in line with the Supreme Court's ruling requiring a fresh delineation exercise.

However, they expressed concern over delays and resistance, allegedly instigated by elements of the Itsekiri ethnic group.

According to the field findings, the Ijaws are the majority in Warri North and Warri South-West LGAs, while the Urhobos hold the majority in Warri South LGA. 

The joint statement reaffirmed these demographic realities, emphasizing that any credible delineation process must prioritize population and physical settlement patterns, not outdated or unreliable voters' registers.

The Ijaw and Urhobo leaders categorically rejected the use of the current voters' register as the foundation for the ward delineation, arguing that it is unlawful and inconsistent with the Supreme Court’s instructions. 

They warned that any attempt to manipulate the process for ethnic gain would not only undermine democracy but could also lead to instability.

“Our demand is clear and fair,” the leaders declared. “INEC must complete the delineation process strictly based on lawful guidelines, field data, and the demographic realities on the ground. No voter registration or election-related activities should proceed in Warri Federal Constituency until this is accomplished.”

The statement was jointly signed by Hon. Denbo-Denbofa Oweikpodor, Comrade Sheriff Mulade, Hon. (Chief) Arthur Akpodubakaye, Joel Bisina, PhD, and Comrade Emmanuel Igetei for the Ijaw delegation, and Chief John Eranvor, Chief Westham Adehor, JP, Olorogun Victor Okumagba, JP, and Hon. Mark Ikpuri for the Urhobo delegation.

The leaders urged INEC to remain steadfast, impartial, and committed to its constitutional duties. They called on Nigerians, civil society organizations, and the international community to closely monitor the situation and support efforts that ensure fairness and justice in the electoral process.

This unprecedented alliance between the Ijaws and Urhobos of Warri marks a significant milestone in the political landscape of the region, emphasizing the need for justice and unity in shaping the future of Nigeria’s electoral democracy.