News

HURIWA Hails INEC’s Warri Constituency Delineation

Published

3 months ago

April 17, 2025

Editor

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission for its exemplary conduct in the recent delineation of wards and polling units within the Warri Federal Constituency, covering Warri South, Warri West, and Warri South-West Local Government Areas in Delta State.

Describing the delineation exercise as “a milestone in Nigeria’s democratic evolution,” HURIWA hailed INEC’s strict adherence to the rule of law and constitutionalism, especially in implementing the Supreme Court judgment delivered on December 2, 2022.

In a statement signed by HURIWA National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, and made available to PUNCH Online on Thursday, said the judgment had mandated a fresh and credible delineation of the Warri Federal Constituency to reflect the true demographic realities and political representation of the area.

HURIWA said, “The Independent National Electoral Commission has not only complied with the letter and spirit of the Supreme Court ruling but has demonstrated genuine fidelity to democratic values by ensuring that this delineation process was inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the diversity in Warri Federal Constituency.”

HURIWA particularly praised INEC for involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and representatives of the Urhobo, Itsekiri, and Ijaw ethnic nationalities in the presentation of the delineation report.

This deliberate engagement, the association said, affirms INEC’s recognition of grassroots legitimacy and its growing responsiveness to the aspirations of all Nigerian citizens, especially those historically sidelined in political arrangements.

According to HURIWA, the allocation of 10 wards to the Ijaw people in Warri North, as well as equitable representation across other ethnic nationalities, is a courageous step toward dismantling entrenched marginalisation.

“The courage shown by INEC in correcting historical imbalances in political representation is commendable and exemplary. It sets a new benchmark for the conduct of boundary reviews and delineation exercises in Nigeria. For the first time in decades, communities in Warri Federal Constituency can breathe a collective sigh of relief, knowing that their votes will count equally, and their identities will no longer be suppressed under arbitrary administrative designs,” HURIWA stated.

The association also lauded the peaceful demonstrations held by members of the Ijaw ethnic group in support of the delineation.

HURIWA said the peaceful nature of the protests signals a maturing democratic ethos among the Nigerian electorate, one which is marked not by violence or confrontation, but by constructive engagement and lawful expression.

“We salute the Ijaw people for their civilised demonstration of support for INEC. This is a beautiful example of democratic activism anchored in peace and principle. It contrasts sharply with the culture of political thuggery and voter suppression that we often see during election cycles,” HURIWA added.

While praising INEC’s boldness and professionalism, HURIWA urged the Commission to remain vigilant in safeguarding the gains of this process.

The group warned against any attempts by political actors to subvert the outcomes of the delineation through backdoor manoeuvres, intimidation, or misinformation campaigns.

“We are aware of elements that may seek to undermine this great stride by INEC for selfish political reasons. We urge the Commission to stand firm. The integrity of this process must be protected at all costs,” the group warned.

HURIWA also called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and other law enforcement agencies to provide security for INEC officials and the communities affected.

“INEC must be allowed to perform its constitutional duties without fear, interference, or political pressure. We urge the security agencies to support INEC in maintaining peace and order in Delta State.

“This delineation is a triumph of justice over manipulation, of fairness over suppression. It gives hope to marginalised communities all over Nigeria that change is possible within the framework of the rule of law. We applaud INEC for doing the right thing. This is the pathway to a stronger, fairer Nigeria,” HURIWA concluded.

News

Delta Community King Joins His Ancestors

Published

3 hours ago

July 12, 2025

Editor

The traditional ruler of Olomu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, His Royal Majesty, Ovie Macaulay Popo Ovbagbedia, Uhurhie-Osadjere II, also known as the Ohworode of Olomu, has passed away.

The official announcement was made at the royal palace in Ovwor-Olomu by the kingdom’s spokesperson, Olorogun Albert Akpomudje (SAN), who was joined by members of the Olomu Traditional Council and the late king’s family.

As part of the tradition, the announcement was accompanied by cultural rites, including a performance from Ema dancers and the firing of 21 cannon shots to symbolise the king’s journey to the afterlife.

Following customs, all markets within the kingdom are to remain shut, and no burial or marriage ceremonies will take place during the mourning period. Shops may only open partially.

A one-month mourning period has been declared, from July 12 to August 12, 2025.

During this time, all chiefs of the Olomu Kingdom are required to wear black armbands on their left arms and are not allowed to wear the traditional red Olomu chieftaincy cap, as a sign of respect for the late king.

In remembrance, a five-minute silence was held to honour the monarch, who began his reign on May 20, 2023.

News

After Media Reports Of Locking Out Supporters From Govt House, Okpebholo Hits Security Personnel

Published

3 hours ago

July 12, 2025

Editor

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has ordered the probe and immediate redeployment of security personnel, including the Camp Commandant at government for allegedly preventing jubilant supporters from accessing the government house during the Supreme Court victory celebrations.

Recall that on Friday, July 11, 2025, INFO DAILY reported that jubilant supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) trekked from the airport while the governor was on motorcade, but unfortunately they (supporters ) were prevented from entering the Edo State Government House after governor went in.

INFO DAILY also reports that efforts to convince the security personnel to grant the jubilant supporters access to the government house were abortive as they (security personnel) insisted that it was order from above.

This made many of the supporters felt disappointed as the grumbled to their different designations with insults on the authorities.

But in a shift reaction to the incident, Okpebholo said such an order did not originate from him, describing the action as unacceptable and inconsistent with his leadership style.

the governor who said the action does not reflect his values, noted, “I will never knowingly authorize any action that disrespects our supporters or members of the press”.

He said as a governor elected by the people, he remains committed to openness, inclusion, and respect for every stakeholder.

Okpebholo, however, constituted an investigative committee to identify all those involved in the unfortunate incident.

He noted that the exclusion of invited guests and supporters was not only unauthorized but also in complete contradiction to the spirit of the celebration.

He emphasized that he remains a people-focused and accessible leader who holds the media and supporters in the highest regard, assuring that anyone found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action,

He warned that his administration would not tolerate acts that seek to ridicule or alienate the very people who stood by him.

News

Edo Deputy Governor, Others, bags Africa Peace Icon Award In Rwanda

Published

5 hours ago

July 12, 2025

Editor

Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa (Right) receiving the award.

The deputy governor of Edo state, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has been recognised as one of the 100 most notable peace icons in Africa.

Idahosa was honored alongside other prominent Nigerians and Africans at the recently concluded 100 most notable Africans leadership and business summit held in Kigali, Rwanda.

The event celebrated individuals recognised as the “100 most notable peace icons in Africa” for their impactful contributions to nation-building and peace promotion across the continent.

Other notable awardees included Umar Namadi, the governor of Jigawa state, Imane Kendili, the chief executive officer (CEO) of African Global Health in Morocco; Nicaise Ndembi, regional director at the Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine; and Ibrahim Zanna.

The list of honourees also featured personalities such as Mthuli Ncube, Pedzai Scott Pakupwanya, Torhile A. Uchi, and Angel Nationota, among others.

Kingsley Amafibe, project director for Africa for the awards, said the recognition was to encourage recipients to continue leveraging their platforms to foster peace and development in Africa.

Amafibe said the continent’s progress depends heavily on peace and stability, urging collective efforts to strengthen unity and brotherhood.

The awards attracted a diverse group of leaders from various sectors, including politics, academia, health, and business.