Itsekiri Threaten Action Over INEC’s Plot to Enforce Contentious Delineation Report

The Itsekiri ethnic nationality has issued a renewed warning to the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, over alleged plan to implement its controversial proposed electoral wards delineation report in Warri Federal Constituency, despite long-standing opposition from the Itsekiri people.

Speaking at a Press Briefing in Warri on Monday, Meyiwa Khalil restated their rejection of the current ward allocation proposal, which unfairly reduces the itsekiri representation while expanding that of other ethnic groups, including the Ijaw and Urhobo.

Under the proposed changes, the number of wards in Ijaw-dominated areas would increase significantly from four to fourteen in Warri North and from four to ten in Warri South-West. On the other hand, the Itsekiri, who are the indigenous majority in the constituency, would see their wards reduced or remain unchanged.

A splinter of the group via a protest at Escravos in Warri South-West LGA stated that the proposal was a violation of their rights and accused INEC of ignoring the findings of its own field officers. They have also called for the replacement of key members of the delineation committee, citing concerns over impartiality.

In what is now a repeated threat, the Itsekiri warned they would shut down oil and gas operations in their territory if the commission proceeds without addressing their concerns. The region is home to several major oil installations, and such a move could have economic consequences beyond Delta State.

INEC has not publicly responded to the latest statement.