Leaders of the Itsekiri and Urhobo ethnic nationalities in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to upload what they described as the appropriate names, structure and allocation of the three wards in the local government area in line with consultations previously held with stakeholders.
The call was made during a joint press conference held in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta, on Friday, where representatives of the two ethnic groups expressed their views on the ongoing ward delineation exercise in Warri South Local Government Area.
Speaking on behalf of the groups, legal practitioner Chief Robinson Ariyo said the Itsekiri and Urhoboethnic nationalities were concerned about aspects of the ward delineation exercise and urged INEC to ensure that the final ward structure reflects what they described as the historical and demographic realities of the area.
According to him, the groups remain committed to a peaceful resolution of the issues surrounding the delineation process and expect the electoral body to take into consideration submissions made by stakeholders during consultations.
Chief Ariyo noted that should their concerns remain unaddressed, the groups may consider seeking legal interpretation through the appropriate channels.
Also speaking at the conference, Urhobo women leader, Mrs. Roselyn Akomakowe, appealed to INEC to remain fair and impartial in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.
She emphasized the need for the electoral body to ensure that the ward delineation process promotes equity, inclusiveness and lasting peace among the various communities in the area.
In a similar vein, Mr. Tuoyo Ofuyaekpone urged INEC to carefully consider the historical background and community structure of Warri South in implementing the delineation exercise.
The leaders further commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his intervention in the matter and expressed hope that the ongoing engagements among stakeholders would contribute to a mutually acceptable outcome.
They maintained that discussions concerning the delineation exercise should continue through dialogue and established legal processes to preserve peace and harmony in the Warri area.
The ward delineation issue stems from the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment on the delineation of wards and polling units in the Warri Federal Constituency, comprising Warri North, Warri South and Warri South-West Local Government Areas.
