Oil production in Delta State was significantly disrupted on Tuesday after hundreds of women and youths shut down 13 oil flow stations in protest over the implementation of the ward and polling unit delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency.
The protest affected facilities operated by major oil companies, including Shell Petroleum Development Company, Chevron Nigeria Limited and Nestoil/NECONDE.
The affected flow stations include Odidi 1 and 2, Batan, Ogbanabou, Jones Creek, Otunana, Egwa 1 and 2, Abiteye, Makaraba, Olero Creek, Dibi Field and Opuekeba.
The protesters, drawn from communities in Gbaramatu, Ogbe-Ijoh, Isaba, Egbema and Diebiri Kingdoms, reportedly occupied the facilities and halted operations. They also blocked water routes used for logistics and supplies, making it difficult for oil companies to continue their activities.
The demonstration involved mainly Ijaw women and youths from Warri South, Warri South-West and Warri North local government areas.
The protesters said they were demanding the implementation of the ward and polling unit delineation report recently approved by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
They accused some individuals and groups of attempting to prevent the implementation of the report, which they believe was lawfully carried out by the electoral commission.
The action came a day after Ijaw and Urhobo groups in Warri Federal Constituency warned that they could shut down oil production if the delineation report was not implemented.
During the protest, demonstrators carried placards with messages calling on INEC to enforce the delineation exercise and comply with court decisions relating to the issue.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Chief Maria Ebike said the action followed what she described as repeated delays in implementing the report.
According to her, the delineation exercise was intended to ensure fair representation for communities within the constituency, but efforts were allegedly being made to stop its implementation.
She said the protesters had remained patient for a long time and decided to take peaceful action to press their demands.
The controversy stems from a 2022 Supreme Court judgment that ordered a fresh ward and polling unit delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency.
Following the ruling, the Independent National Electoral Commission conducted the exercise and presented its final report to stakeholders in Asaba in May 2026.
However, the report has continued to generate disagreement among Ijaw, Urhobo and Itsekiri groups, with different sides expressing concerns over its implementation.
As of Tuesday evening, operations at the affected facilities remained suspended, raising concerns about the impact on crude oil production and government revenue.
