There Will Be No Election In Warri Federal Constituency Come 2027 If INEC Fails To Implement Report on Fresh Ward Delineation
— Indigenous Ijaw and Urhobo People Blow Hot at World Press Conference
By Wilson Macaulay / Victor Okpomor
Warri, Delta State
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Tension is mounting in the politically sensitive Warri Federal Constituency of Delta State as indigenous Ijaw and Urhobo leaders have issued a stern warning to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), declaring that there will be no elections in the constituency during the 2027 general polls if the commission fails to release and implement the long-awaited report on fresh ward delineation.
The strong position was made known during a well-attended world press conference held at KFT Event Centre in Warri South Local Government Area, where key stakeholders from both ethnic nationalities spoke with one voice, expressing deep frustration over what they described as INEC’s continued delay and perceived injustice.
Leaders Speak with One Voice
The joint statement, read by Olorogun Victor Okumagba, was endorsed by prominent leaders including Dr. Joel Bisina, High Chief Dr. Godspower T. D. A. Gbenekama (Fiyewei of Gbaramatu Kingdom), Dr. Paul Bebenimibo, Chief Arthur Akpodubakaye, Rev. Samuel Ako, Chief Emmanuel Sekondi, Hon. Frank Pukon, Amb. Jude Ebitimi Ukori, Chief David Reje, Comrade (Mrs.) Margaret Ikinbor, Chief Monday Keme, Chief John Eranvo, Chief Wilson Ogbodu, Chief Sylvester Femi Okumagba, Chief Mrs. Ann Gagiyovwi, and Chief Vero Tangbavei, among others.
They recalled that as far back as August 25, 2025, they had drawn national attention to INEC’s refusal to act on the completed delineation exercise, which was carried out in compliance with a binding judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in Suit No. SC/413/2006.
According to the leaders, despite INEC fulfilling the technical aspect of the court’s directive by conducting the delineation, the commission has failed to take the crucial next step of releasing and implementing the report.
“Not a Threat, But a Reality”
In a tone that reflected both anger and resolve, Okumagba emphasized that their position should not be misconstrued as a threat, but rather a statement of inevitable consequences.
“This is not a threat,” he declared. “The Ijaw and Urhobo people of Warri Federal Constituency have exhausted all legal means, including obtaining a judgment from the Supreme Court. If INEC continues to ignore its statutory responsibility, we will have no option but to take our destiny into our own hands.”
He further stated unequivocally:
“We shall use all possible means necessary to ensure that there is no election in Warri Federal Constituency in 2027.”
Allegations of Bias and Suppression
The group accused INEC of undermining democratic principles through what they described as acts of “cowardice,” “institutional bias,” and “irresponsibility.” They argued that the refusal to implement the delineation report effectively disenfranchises indigenous communities, denying them fair political representation and participation.
They also warned that history could repeat itself if urgent steps are not taken, citing past tensions in the Warri axis rooted in electoral and territorial disputes.
According to them, the situation is further aggravated by alleged political interference and ethnic considerations, which they claim have stalled the implementation of the report.
Call for Immediate Action
The stakeholders unanimously called on INEC to immediately release and operationalize the delineation report, stressing that the process was painstaking and involved extensive consultations and technical mapping.
“A stitch in time saves nine,” the statement noted, urging the electoral body to act swiftly to avert a looming crisis.
Maps from INEC’s spatial department were displayed during the briefing, which the group said clearly validated their claims and demonstrated that the delineation exercise had indeed been completed.
Women and Youths Join the Demand
Adding weight to the agitation, Chief (Mrs.) Onome Okumagba, a prominent women leader from Okere Urhobo Kingdom, alongside youth representatives from both ethnic groups, echoed the demand for justice and fairness.
They warned that continued delay could destabilize the fragile peace in Warri and called on all relevant authorities to intervene before the situation escalates.
A Looming Political Flashpoint
The development signals a potential flashpoint ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly in Delta State, where Warri Federal Constituency remains a politically strategic and ethnically diverse region.
Observers say the unfolding situation poses a critical test for INEC’s credibility and its commitment to upholding the rule of law and democratic integrity.
As tensions rise, all eyes are now on INEC and the federal authorities to determine whether proactive measures will be taken to address the grievances—or whether the warnings from Warri’s indigenous communities will translate into a full-blown electoral crisis.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, MAY 5TH 2026)
