Itsekiri Issue Warning over INEC’s Electoral Ward Delineation Plan

July 21, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

The Itsekiri people have voiced strong opposition to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) proposed electoral ward delineation report for the Warri Federal Constituency.

According to reports from a press briefing in Warri, the Itsekiri ethnic group rejects the current proposal due to concerns over unfair representation.

Meyiwa Khalil emphasized that the plan disproportionately reduces Itsekiri representation while increasing the number of wards for other ethnic groups like the Ijaw and Urhobo.

Under the proposed changes, wards in Ijaw-dominated areas would see a substantial increase – from four to fourteen in Warri North and from four to ten in Warri South-West. Conversely, the Itsekiri, who are the indigenous majority in the constituency, would experience either a reduction or no change in the number of wards allocated.

A faction of the Itsekiri group protested at Escravos in Warri South-West Local Government Area, arguing that the proposal infringes on their rights and accusing INEC of disregarding findings from its own field officers.

They demand the replacement of key delineation committee members due to impartiality concerns.

In a reiterated statement, the Itsekiri have warned of shutting down oil and gas operations within their territory if INEC proceeds with the plan without addressing their grievances.

The region hosts several major oil installations, and such action could lead to economic repercussions beyond Delta State.