JUST IN: Abraye Lauds INEC Over Implementation Of Warri Federal Constituency Delineation Report, Says Decades Of Political Marginalization, Electoral Injustice Suffered By Ijaws And Urhobos Put To An End -

By Uche Alvin

The National Coordinator of the Niger Delta Advocates For Peace, Development And Economic Justice (NDAPDEJ), Comrade Freeborn Abraye, has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for courageously implementing the Supreme Court-ordered final delineation report for the Warri Federal Constituency, describing the development as a landmark victory for democracy, constitutional order, electoral justice, and equitable representation.

According to Comrade Abraye, the implementation of the final delineation report has finally brought an end to decades of political suppression, marginalization, disenfranchisement, and deliberate political relegation suffered by the Ijaw and Urhobo people of Warri Federal Constituency.

He stated that for many years, the legitimate aspirations of the Ijaw and Urhobo people for fair political representation were undermined through an electoral structure that failed to adequately reflect demographic realities and constitutional principles of equal representation. He noted that the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment has now restored balance, fairness, and confidence in the democratic process.

“The courageous decision by INEC to faithfully implement the Supreme Court judgment has sent a powerful message to Nigerians and the international community that the rule of law remains supreme in our democracy and that no individual, ethnic interest, political pressure group, or vested interest can override the authority of the nation’s highest court.

“This historic action has liberated the Ijaw and Urhobo people from years of political injustice and has guaranteed them a stronger voice in determining their political future. It is a victory not just for the Ijaws and Urhobos, but for democracy, fairness, constitutionalism, and the rule of law in Nigeria.”

Comrade Abraye further noted that the implementation of the delineation report has significantly restored public confidence in INEC as an institution charged with conducting credible elections in Nigeria.

According to him, the Commission has demonstrated uncommon courage, neutrality, and commitment to democratic principles by refusing to succumb to intimidation, blackmail, political manipulation, and undue interference from individuals and groups opposed to the implementation of the Supreme Court judgment.

He expressed confidence that INEC’s action has reassured the people of Warri Federal Constituency and Nigerians at large that the Commission is capable of conducting free, fair, transparent, credible, and internationally acceptable elections in 2027 without compromising electoral integrity.

“The people now have renewed faith that INEC can stand firm in the face of pressure and uphold its constitutional responsibilities. The Commission has shown that it is prepared to protect democracy and ensure that every vote counts irrespective of ethnicity, influence, or political affiliation.”

While applauding the Commission for the successful implementation of the delineation report, Comrade Abraye urged INEC not to relent in its commitment to electoral justice and inclusive representation.

He called on the Commission to urgently work towards the implementation of the proposed additional federal constituencies within the Warri axis in order to further deepen democratic participation and ensure that the people receive the level of representation they truly deserve in Nigeria’s political structure.

“The growing population and strategic importance of the Warri area within the Niger Delta justify enhanced political representation. We therefore urge INEC and all relevant constitutional authorities to expedite actions towards the creation and implementation of the proposed additional federal constituencies so that every community can enjoy adequate representation in the National Assembly.”

Comrade Abraye emphasized that sustainable peace, stability, and development can only thrive where justice, fairness, and inclusiveness prevail, stressing that equitable representation remains a fundamental pillar of democratic governance.

He called on all stakeholders, community leaders, political actors, and residents of the Warri Federal Constituency to embrace peace, respect the rule of law, and support the implementation of the delineation exercise in the collective interest of justice, unity, and regional development.

“The era of political exclusion must never return. The people have spoken through the law, the Supreme Court has spoken through its judgment, and INEC has acted in compliance with that judgment. This is how democracy should work.”

Signed:
Comrade Freeborn Abraye
National Coordinator
Niger Delta Advocates For Peace, Development And Economic Justice (NDAPDEJ).