Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas of Delta South Senatorial District has praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for beginning the process of restoring three previously suppressed Delta State House of Assembly constituencies, describing the move as a major victory for democracy, fairness and inclusive representation.
The constituencies affected are Isoko North II, Ughelli South II and Abraka State Constituency in Ethiope East Local Government Area.
The senator gave the commendation during a stakeholders’ engagement held on Friday at the INEC Conference Hall, Asaba, where the electoral commission outlined plans for the restoration exercise.
Represented by the Executive Assistant to the Delta State Governor on New Media, Felix Ofou, Senator Joel-Onowakpo thanked INEC for taking steps to address the long-standing issue, noting that restoring the constituencies would strengthen democratic participation and ensure that affected communities enjoy proper representation.
He described the development as an important milestone in Delta State’s democratic journey, urging community leaders, political stakeholders and residents to cooperate with INEC to ensure a smooth and credible process.
The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives that promote justice, inclusiveness and the protection of citizens’ democratic rights, adding that the restoration would help resolve concerns surrounding political representation in the affected areas.
Earlier, the Delta State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Sir Etekamba Udo Umoren, said the exercise was being undertaken in compliance with relevant court judgments, constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act.
Umoren assured stakeholders that the process would be transparent, fair and inclusive, with all relevant groups carried along.
He appealed for the support of political parties, traditional institutions, civil society organisations, community leaders and residents, stressing that INEC would maintain neutrality throughout the exercise.
The stakeholders’ meeting marked part of the commission’s consultation process aimed at building public confidence and ensuring broad participation in the restoration of the three Delta State constituencies.
