The Itsekiri Grassroot Coalition (IGC) and the broader Itsekiri Nation have formally rejected the Independent National Electoral Commission’s proposed ward delineation exercise for the Warri Federal Constituency, describing it as a calculated assault on the political identity and constitutional representation of the Itsekiri people.
In a strongly worded press statement issued by the coalition’s National Coordinator, Prince Collins Oritsetimeyin Edema, the group condemned what it characterized as a deliberate attempt by INEC to diminish Itsekiri electoral standing in one of Nigeria’s most strategically significant constituencies, home to vast oil and gas resources that have long underpinned the country’s economy.
“The Itsekiri people have for generations contributed immensely to the economic growth and stability of Nigeria, particularly through the oil and gas resources located within our ancestral homeland,” the statement read. “Any action capable of marginalizing our people or distorting historical and electoral realities threatens peace, unity, and democratic coexistence in the region.”
The coalition also raised alarm over reported attacks on members of the Ugborodo/Itsekiri Youths (UIY), a youth group that had exercised its democratic right to protest the proposed delineation. The IGC demanded a public apology from INEC for the assault on the peaceful protesters, alongside an independent investigation into the incident and all related allegations.
Among the coalition’s formal demands to INEC are the immediate withdrawal of the contested ward boundaries, the convening of a fresh, transparent, and inclusive delineation process involving all critical stakeholders, and accountability for the violence against protesters.
The IGC further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, civil society organizations, traditional institutions, and democracy advocates to urgently intervene before the situation deteriorates. The group warned that political exclusion of indigenous peoples remains incompatible with democratic governance.
“No democratic society can thrive where the voices of indigenous peoples are ignored or suppressed,” the statement declared. “The Itsekiri people will remain united, vigilant, and steadfast in the defense of their homeland, heritage, and identity.”
The coalition made clear it would pursue its demands through lawful democratic actions, civic engagement, and constitutional means, insisting that fairness, justice, equity, and respect for Itsekiri ancestral identity are non-negotiable.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
