Renowned rights activist and engineer, Dr. Messiah Doupade Olaye, has lauded the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its recent ward delineation exercise in Warri Federal Constituency, calling it a groundbreaking step toward correcting long-standing political injustice.
Speaking to journalists in Warri, Delta State, Dr. Olaye described the move as a pivotal moment in the region’s political journey.
Dr. Olaye, known for his strong stance on fairness and social equity, praised INEC for taking bold and impartial action to address what he described as decades of marginalization and underrepresentation.
He commended the Commission for realigning the ward structures in Warri South, Warri North, and Warri South-West local government areas to reflect current demographic realities — a step he says has been avoided for too long due to political interests.
Reflecting on the roots of the issue, Dr. Olaye said the imbalance in ward allocation dates back to the early post-independence era and was further entrenched after the return of democracy in 1999.
He noted that many communities, particularly those of Ijaw and Urhobo origins, have been sidelined despite their population size and development.
According to him, this unequal representation was no accident but the result of deliberate political tactics aimed at maintaining a skewed power structure.
Dr. Olaye applauded INEC for reversing this trend, describing the move as a courageous and principled effort rooted in democratic values.
He emphasized that for the first time in many years, a federal institution has taken decisive steps to uphold justice and ensure that all groups have a fair voice in the electoral process.
He likened the development to a long-awaited breakthrough that has given renewed hope to previously marginalized communities.
Citing INEC’s adherence to constitutional requirements, population data, and broad stakeholder consultations, Dr. Olaye affirmed that the delineation process was thorough, inclusive, and guided by integrity.
He dismissed any attempts to discredit the exercise, asserting that no smear campaign can erase the truth or stop a timely idea from coming to life.
He appealed to political leaders, community elders, and ethnic groups in the region to welcome the changes with wisdom and a sense of unity.
Rather than stoking division, he urged everyone to look beyond ethnic sentiments and consider the broader benefits of inclusive governance. He advised that any disputes over the delineation should be resolved through lawful channels instead of protests or conflict.
Dr. Olaye emphasized that the new wards open the door for greater grassroots involvement, fairer power distribution, and leadership that truly reflects the diversity of Warri’s people.
He called on INEC to ensure the smooth implementation of the new structure in the lead-up to the 2027 elections and warned against any attempts to sabotage the process.
In light of recent tensions sparked by the ward creation, Dr. Olaye also called on Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to maintain order and ensure peace throughout the constituency.
He urged the state government to promote dialogue and discourage any form of unrest, noting that real progress can only be made in an atmosphere of calm and cooperation.
He encouraged the Governor to bring all stakeholders together — from traditional rulers to youth leaders — to foster understanding and unity.
Dr. Olaye concluded by encouraging young people and community figures to take advantage of the new opportunities for political participation and representation.
He believes that this development marks a new chapter in Warri’s political history, one where justice and equality take center stage.
As the dust settles on this long-awaited change, Dr. Olaye’s voice remains a reminder that justice is not passively received — it must be pursued, protected, and preserved. And for Warri, this could very well be the beginning of a more inclusive and balanced political future.
