Ijaw, Urhobo leaders applaude INEC’s Warri delineation report, hail new constituencies as path to peace

Leaders of the Ijaw and Urhobo communities in Warri have applauded the final report of the Supreme Court-ordered delineation of electoral wards and polling units in the Warri Federal Constituency, describing it as a major step toward ending years of political agitation in the area.

Speaking at a press briefing in Warri on May 21, 2026, the groups said the report released by the Independent National Electoral Commission  on May 20 in Asaba addresses long-standing concerns over political representation and inclusion.

“We applaud INEC for acting in accordance with the order of the Supreme Court of Nigeria by releasing the final report for the conduct of the 2027 general elections,” the statement read.

The leaders said the changes “substantially address the political agitations and restore peace to the Warri Federal Constituency,” noting that lack of political space for different ethnic groups had fueled feelings of oppression and alienation.

“These audacious steps by INEC have given every ethnic nationality the opportunity to participate in the political process,” they stated. “One of the most significant points is the recognition of the ethnic diversity of the people in Warri Federal Constituency.”

The groups pledged to cooperate fully with INEC and participate in the 2027 elections. They also urged all Ijaw and Urhobo people to remain law-abiding throughout the electoral process.

“We commend the security agencies for their collective efforts in maintaining law and order in the Warri Federal Constituency,” the statement added.

The briefing was signed by Olorogun Victor Okumagba, Alaowei Denbo-Denbofa Oweikpodor, Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, and Chief John Eronror.

The delineation exercise stems from the Supreme Court judgment in SC/413/2016: Hon. George U. Timinimi & Ors v. INEC, delivered on Dec. 2, 2022, which directed INEC to carry out a fresh delineation of wards and units in Warri North, Warri South, and Warri South-West LGAs.