WARD DELINEATION: Itsekiri group rejects equal allocation with Ijaw
Warri North Itsekiri Rebirth Forum Rejects Proposed Ward Delineation
The Warri North Itsekiri Rebirth Forum has formally rejected a proposed ward delineation that allocates ten wards each to the Itsekiri and Ijaw ethnic groups in Warri North Local Government Area.
In a statement released by representatives Solomon Mikie and Justice Akoyoma, the group criticized the proposal as fundamentally flawed and disconnect from the demographic realities of the Itsekiri people. The forum called for the National Assembly to thoroughly examine the delineation plan before any legislative action is taken.
“The proposal does not reflect the demographic and electoral realities of Warri North,” the statement read. “We reject it in its entirety and urge the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to implement what we consider an unjust arrangement detrimental to the political rights of the Itsekiri people.”
According to INEC’s 2023 Register of Voters, the Itsekiri community has six wards containing 134 polling units and 75,912 registered voters, whereas the Ijaw community has four wards, 58 polling units, and 34,480 registered voters. The Itsekiri group exceeds the Ijaw by 41,432 registered voters, raising questions about the rationale behind equal ward allocation.
“We respectfully urge INEC to clarify the methodology used for this allocation and to review the proposed delineation to ensure that it aligns with verifiable data and constitutional principles,” the statement continued.
The forum also expressed disappointment with individuals claiming to represent the Itsekiri community on the ward delineation issue without proper consultations. They emphasized that no one was mandated to negotiate on behalf of the Itsekiri regarding this sensitive matter.
“Consequently, any agreements reached without community consent are not binding,” they stated. The forum also noted concerns about reports of meetings with stakeholders that failed to include adequate briefings for the wider community.
In light of these issues, the Warri North Itsekiri Rebirth Forum announced that it no longer recognizes certain individuals as representatives of the Itsekiri people. They called for government entities to engage with credible community representatives.
Additionally, the forum rejected the current ward delineation and requested that INEC revisit the proposal in accordance with constitutional provisions and demographic data.
They also brought attention to reports of kidnapping and unlawful detention in Itsekiri communities, urging high-level government officials to investigate these allegations and hold culpable parties accountable.
“Failing to address these complaints can lead to broader threats to peace and stability,” the forum warned, highlighting the importance of prompt intervention in preventing escalation of these issues.
