Warri, Delta State – A large gathering of young Itsekiri protesters marched through central Warri today, demanding that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) withdraw what they termed a biased ward delineation report that threatens their community’s electoral representation.
The demonstration commenced at the prominent Warri Club located in the Government Residential Area of Okere Community. Protesters then proceeded along a carefully planned route through Miller Waterside near the Nigerian Ports Authority facility, continued through Ugbuwangwe, and concluded their march at Angle Park, where addresses were delivered.
Participants carried signs reading “INEC Stop the Disenfranchisement,” “Our Wards, Our Voice,” and “Justice for Itsekiri People” while maintaining a disciplined and peaceful demeanour throughout the procession.
Representatives from multiple Itsekiri youth organisations explained that the recent INEC ward delineation proposal fails to accurately reflect the actual population distribution and historical settlement patterns of their ancestral territories. They alleged that political operatives have influenced the boundary-drawing process to diminish the Itsekiri electoral strength while benefiting rival ethnic groups.
“Today’s action reflects our refusal to accept the systematic erosion of our democratic rights,” declared a youth leader addressing the assembled crowd at Angle Park. “This delineation report represents more than administrative boundaries – it strikes at the heart of our identity, our political participation, and our community’s future prospects.”
Law enforcement personnel maintained a visible but non-intrusive presence throughout the event, ensuring public safety while allowing the peaceful expression of grievances to proceed without disruption.
Senior community figures and civil society advocates have joined calls for INEC to conduct a comprehensive review of the Warri ward delineation process, emphasising the need for transparency, fairness, and strict compliance with constitutional requirements.
This demonstration represents a pivotal development in the Itsekiri community’s broader campaign for equitable treatment and meaningful representation within Nigeria’s electoral system.
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.
