The Independent National Electoral Commission has commenced the process of restoring the suppressed Abraka, Ughelli South II and Isoko North II State House of Assembly constituencies in Delta State.
The electoral body said the move is aimed at ensuring that the affected communities regain representation in the Delta State House of Assembly in line with court judgments and constitutional provisions.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting at the INEC Conference Hall in Asaba on Friday, the Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sir Etekamba Udo Umoren, said the restoration exercise would strengthen democracy and ensure fair representation for the affected communities.
He described the exercise as part of INEC’s constitutional responsibility to implement court decisions and promote inclusive governance.
According to Umoren, restoring the three constituencies will allow residents to once again elect lawmakers who will represent their interests and address their developmental needs.
“The exercise is more than an administrative process. It is about restoring the voices of communities that have been without proper representation in the State House of Assembly,” he said.
The REC commended traditional rulers, political leaders, security agencies, civil society groups, youth and women organisations, community leaders and the media for attending the meeting despite the short notice.
He urged all stakeholders to support INEC throughout the exercise by providing accurate information and encouraging residents to participate peacefully.
Umoren also appealed to traditional rulers to sensitise their communities, while calling on local government chairmen in the affected areas to mobilise residents for the exercise.
He further urged security agencies to ensure adequate protection to maintain peace and build public confidence throughout the process.
The REC assured residents that the commission would conduct the exercise with transparency, fairness and professionalism.
“I am confident that with the support of all stakeholders, we will successfully restore these constituencies and further strengthen democracy in Delta State,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the Supervising National Commissioner for Delta State, the Deputy Director of Delineation, Mrs Emem Umoren, described the exercise as an important step towards ensuring equal political representation for all communities.
She said the restoration would help guarantee that residents of the affected constituencies are no longer denied their constitutional right to elect representatives to the Delta State House of Assembly.
Mrs Umoren called on political parties, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents to work together to ensure a peaceful and credible exercise.
She expressed confidence that continued cooperation among stakeholders would not only ensure the successful restoration of the three constituencies but also deepen public trust in the electoral process and strengthen democracy in Delta State.
