Warri Delineation Dispute Deepens as Itsekiri Communities Seek Creation of Ijala Ward

Communities Push for Greater Political Representation

THE controversy surrounding the ongoing electoral ward delineation exercise in Delta State’s Warri Federal Constituency has taken a new turn, as four oil-producing Itsekiri communities formally demanded the creation of a separate electoral ward to be known as Ijala Ward.

Leaders of Ifiekporo, Aja-Etan, Ikeren and Utunwa communities made the demand during a press conference held in Ifiekporo, arguing that demographic growth and economic contributions justify the establishment of an independent ward within Warri South Local Government Area.

The request comes amid heightened interest in the delineation process being undertaken by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following a Supreme Court judgment directing a fresh review of electoral wards and polling units across Warri South, Warri North and Warri South-West local government areas.

Population Growth and Economic Contribution Cited

Speaking on behalf of the communities, Pa Michael Domino stated that the demand was based on both population expansion and the strategic economic role played by the area.

According to him, the communities possess the numerical strength and administrative viability required for recognition as a stand-alone electoral ward.

He argued that despite hosting critical national assets and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, the communities continue to operate under the broader Obodo/Omadino Ward structure, which residents believe limits their political visibility and representation.

Community leaders maintained that the current arrangement does not adequately reflect the area’s growing population and developmental importance.

Oil and Gas Infrastructure at the Centre of the Argument

The communities highlighted the presence of major oil and gas facilities within their territory as evidence of their strategic value to both Delta State and the national economy.

Among the facilities identified are installations operated by Conoil and Seplat, the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company, the Obodo Flow Station, as well as several petroleum depots and tank farms.

Residents argued that areas hosting such critical infrastructure should enjoy electoral structures that provide stronger representation and greater participation in governance decisions affecting their communities.

They further expressed disappointment that despite field assessments reportedly conducted by INEC officials during the delineation exercise, their request for a separate ward was not reflected in preliminary proposals.

Renewed Tensions in a Sensitive Political Process

The demand introduces another layer of complexity to a delineation process that has already generated considerable debate among communities across the Warri Federal Constituency.

Electoral ward delineation remains a sensitive issue because of its implications for political representation, resource allocation and local government administration.

Stakeholders across the region have closely monitored the exercise, viewing it as a critical step toward addressing long-standing concerns over representation among various ethnic and community groups.

Political observers note that decisions arising from the exercise could significantly influence future electoral outcomes and governance structures within the affected councils.

Calls for Dialogue and Inclusive Resolution

While community leaders insist that the creation of Ijala Ward is justified, analysts have urged all stakeholders to pursue dialogue and lawful engagement as the process continues.

The ongoing delineation exercise is expected to remain a major political issue in the Warri axis, where questions of representation, community identity and access to political opportunities have historically generated intense public interest.

As INEC continues consultations and reviews submissions from stakeholders, attention is likely to remain focused on how the commission balances competing demands while complying with judicial directives and electoral regulations.