BY AUSTIN OYIBODE
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North in the National Assembly, has consistently proven himself to be a strong advocate for the people of his constituency. Over the years, he has remained unwavering in his commitment to ensuring that the voices of the people of Delta North are heard, their needs addressed, and their rights protected.
His latest statement about fair representation for Delta North while moving a motion for the restoration of Aniocha North 11 state constituency reiterates this commitment, as he continues to work tirelessly to secure an equitable political environment for his constituents.
In his address on the floor of the Senate while moving the motion, Senator Nwoko emphasized the importance of fair representation in governance, highlighting how it is vital for the people of Delta North to have a voice in decisions that affect their lives.
He expressed determination to ensure that no community within Delta North is sidelined or ignored, and that every resident, regardless of their background or status, has equal access to the resources and opportunities provided by the government.
Senator Nwoko’s statement came after his motion on the floor of the Senate for the restoration of Aniocha North 11, a state constituency within Delta State.
The constituency had long been overlooked and excluded from proper representation in the Delta State House of Assembly. Since 2014, the people of Idumuje-Unor, Idumuje-Ugboko, Nkwu-Nzu, Ugboba, Idumuogo, Ugbodu, Ubulubu, Anioma, and Ogodo in Aniocha North LGA initiated legal action to reclaim their constituency.
According to Senator Ned Nwoko, the legal action was initially dismissed by the Federal High Court, the Court of Appeal in Benin ruled in their favor on November 22, 2017, ordering INEC to restore the constituency and conduct elections. The Supreme Court upheld this decision on November 29, 2019, making it final and legally binding. But since then till now the people of the constituency had struggled with political neglect, lacking the necessary voice to speak to power and restore the constituency.
Senator Nwoko, aware of this glaring disparity, moved the motion to rectify this oversight and restore the constituency to its rightful place in the state house of assembly.
In making this move, Senator Nwoko underscored the importance of fairness in the political process, particularly in ensuring that every constituency is represented by someone who can address the unique needs of that community.
By restoring Aniocha North 11, Nwoko argued that the region would be able to regain its political footing and ensure that its people have an advocate fighting for their rights, infrastructure, and development.
The absence of this constituency from the assembly had, in his view, resulted in an imbalance that hindered progress for the people of Aniocha North 11 and, by extension, Delta North as a whole.
For the past 19 months in the Senate, Senator Nwoko has continuously pushed for reforms that promote fairness and justice. He has been a vocal proponent of policies aimed at improving the living conditions of his constituents, including advocating for better healthcare, education, infrastructure, and employment opportunities.
His advocacy for the restoration of Aniocha North 11 is just one example of his larger mission to ensure that all communities within Delta North are given the opportunity to thrive and grow within the larger framework of the state and national governance.
His call for the restoration of Aniocha North 11 also speaks to a broader concern that many political leaders often overlook smaller or less powerful constituencies in favor of more populous regions. Senator Nwoko’s approach is grounded in the belief that true representation goes beyond mere numbers; it’s about fairness, equity, and the recognition of every community’s right to be heard. By focusing on this issue, Senator Nwoko is making a statement about his vision for a more inclusive and balanced political system.
As discussions surrounding the motion unfolded in the Senate, many of his colleagues expressed their support for the cause, recognizing the value of ensuring that every constituency has a voice. Senator Nwoko’s efforts are a clear demonstration of his resolve to ensure that Delta North is not only fairly represented but also that its people receive the attention and resources they deserve.
His statement of commitment demonstrates a deeper understanding of the responsibility that comes with holding public office. For Senator Nwoko, the work of a politician is not merely about acquiring power; it is about using that power to create lasting, positive change for the people. And as he continues his work in the National Assembly, his dedication to fair representation remains steadfast, ensuring that the interests of Delta North are always at the forefront of his efforts.
