Ward Delineation: No Final Decision on Warri Federal Constituency says INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has addressed recent public misconceptions surrounding the proposed delineation of Wards in the Warri Federal Constituency, clarifying that no final decision has been made following the Supreme Court’s directive in December 2022.

In a statement released today, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, emphasized that the Commission is still in the consultative phase of the process.

The clarification comes amid growing speculation and what the Commission describes as “misleading narratives” about the progress and intent behind the proposed changes in Warri North, Warri South, and Warri South West Local Government Areas.

According to Olumekun, INEC commenced extensive consultations from February 2023 through July 2024, engaging all critical stakeholders across affected communities. This culminated in a comprehensive field assessment and the production of a draft report outlining the potential new ward delineations.

Further consultations were held on Friday, April 4, 2025, in Warri, where stakeholders were presented with the draft report and invited to submit their observations. Olumekun stressed that this engagement was intended to foster consensus and ensure that all voices are considered before any final decision is made.

“We urge representatives of the various stakeholders to submit their observations on the draft report which will serve as the basis for further engagement on the matter,” the statement read.

INEC also appealed to all parties to maintain peace and avoid actions that could compromise the area’s security. The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, equity, and the rule of law, assuring the public that the delineation process will remain transparent and inclusive.

The proposed ward delineation stems from a Supreme Court judgment delivered on December 2, 2022, which directed INEC to revisit and address the structure of representation in the Warri Federal Constituency.