The Independent National Electoral Commission has begun the process of restoring three previously suppressed constituencies in the Delta State House of Assembly.
The affected areas are Isoko North Constituency II, Abraka State Constituency in Ethiope East Local Government Area and Ughelli South Constituency II.
Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sir Etekamba Udo Umoren, announced the development during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the commission’s conference hall in Asaba.
Umoren said the exercise was being undertaken in compliance with court judgments and relevant constitutional provisions, adding that it was intended to guarantee fair and effective representation for the affected communities.
He described the engagement as an important step towards restoring the constituencies and strengthening representative democracy in the state.
According to him, the exercise goes beyond an administrative adjustment, as it will allow residents of the affected areas to regain direct representation in the Delta State House of Assembly.
He said the restoration would also enable elected lawmakers to respond more effectively to the concerns and development needs of their constituents.
The REC commended traditional rulers, political leaders, elected officials, security agencies, civil society organisations, the media, youth and women groups, as well as community representatives, for attending the meeting despite the short notice.
He urged stakeholders to cooperate with the commission’s technical team by providing accurate information and supporting constructive engagement at the grassroots.
Umoren also appealed to traditional rulers to mobilise their communities and promote peace, understanding and mutual respect throughout the exercise.
Chairmen of the affected local government councils were advised to encourage broad community participation and ensure that the process reflects the aspirations of residents.
The REC further called on security agencies to maintain law and order and provide a peaceful environment for the successful implementation of the exercise.
He assured residents of Isoko North II, Abraka and Ughelli South II that INEC would remain impartial, transparent and professional in carrying out its responsibilities.
In a keynote address delivered on behalf of the Supervising National Commissioner for Delta State, Deputy Director of Delineation, Mrs. Emem Umoren, described the restoration process as a major step towards strengthening democratic institutions.
She said the initiative reaffirmed the constitutional principle that every community should have fair and effective representation in government.
According to her, restoring the constituencies would ensure that affected communities regain their voice in the legislative process and enjoy greater access to the benefits of democratic governance.
She urged participants to approach the exercise with fairness, unity and inclusiveness, stressing that sustained cooperation would help build a state in which every citizen has a meaningful stake in governance.
