By Sunday Apah
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday convened a stakeholders’ engagement on the restoration of the suppressed State constituencies of Ughelli South II, Isoko North II and Abraka (Ethiope East), reaffirming its commitment to ensuring equitable representation and strengthening democratic governance in Delta State.
The meeting, held on July 31, 2026, at the INEC Conference Hall in Asaba, brought together traditional rulers, political leaders, local Government chairmen, security agencies, civil society organisations, the media, youths, community leaders, and other critical stakeholders from the affected constituencies.
In his welcome address, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Delta State, Sir Etekamba Udo Umoren, described the engagement as timely and significant, noting that the restoration of the suppressed constituencies is in compliance with valid court judgments and relevant constitutional provisions.
He said the exercise reflects INEC’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, promoting fairness and ensuring that every eligible citizen enjoys equitable representation in governance.
He stressed that constituency restoration is not merely an administrative exercise but a fundamental step toward guaranteeing inclusiveness and equal representation in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Umoren urged stakeholders to give maximum support to the Commission’s technical team, emphasizing that access to accurate information, constructive engagement and community cooperation would ensure a credible and transparent exercise.
He also appealed to traditional rulers to leverage their influence in mobilising their communities and maintaining peace throughout the restoration process.
Speaking on behalf of the Supervising National Commissioner for Delta State, the Deputy Director of Delineation, Mrs. Emem Umoren, described the restoration as a significant step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
She maintained that every citizen deserves fair and effective representation, adding that no community should be denied its rightful place in the legislative process or the dividends of democracy.
According to her, the stakeholders’ meeting was organised to provide clarity on the court judgments, explain the restoration process, promote transparency and accountability, encourage stakeholder participation, and strengthen public confidence in the electoral system.
Chairmen of the affected local government councils, Hon. Augustine Usinefe Ogedegbe of Ethiope East, Hon. Prince Godwin Ogorugba of Isoko North, and Hon. Dr. Lucky Avweromre of Ughelli South, pledged their full support for the Commission’s efforts and assured INEC of their commitment to ensuring the successful restoration of the suppressed constituencies in line with the court’s directives.
As part of the exercise, INEC deployed technical teams to the three constituencies to carry out geographical delineation and engage residents on issues relating to the proposed restoration.
The meeting ended peacefully, with stakeholders expressing optimism that the restored constituencies would participate fully in the 2027 general elections.
