By Hezekiah Ovedhe.
Former Secretary to the Delta State Government (SSG) and the Okiroro of Isoko Nation, Comrade (Chief) Ovuozourie Samuel Macaulay, alongside other prominent political leaders from Isoko North, Ughelli South and Ethiope East Local Government Areas, on Friday participated in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) stakeholders’ engagement on the restoration of the suppressed State constituencies of Isoko North Constituency II, Abraka Constituency and Ughelli South Constituency II.
The meeting, held at the INEC Conference Hall in Asaba, brought together key stakeholders to discuss the implementation of the court-ordered restoration process.
The engagement attracted traditional rulers, serving and former public office holders, political party leaders, civil society organisations, community representatives and security agencies. During the meeting, INEC officials outlined the legal framework, operational methodology and field procedures for the restoration exercise, assuring stakeholders that the Commission would implement the judgment strictly in accordance with the decision of the court and established electoral guidelines.
Speaking at the meeting, Comrade Macaulay expressed profound appreciation to the judiciary for what he described as a landmark judgment that restored the constitutional rights of the affected constituencies. He also commended INEC for taking practical steps to implement the court’s decision, assuring the Commission that political leaders, traditional institutions and community stakeholders across the affected local government areas would provide a peaceful atmosphere and every necessary support to enable the field teams carry out their assignment without hindrance.
He pledged that local communities would cooperate fully by providing guides and other assistance required for the successful completion of the exercise.
Other stakeholders also welcomed the restoration process, describing it as a major victory for democracy, equity and fair representation.
They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting INEC throughout the exercise and expressed optimism that the restoration of the constituencies would guarantee effective representation in the Delta State House of Assembly, strengthen public confidence in the electoral process and ensure that the affected communities participate fully in the 2027 general elections.