In a decisive affirmation of the rule of law and electoral justice, the Nigerian Senate has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to implement a landmark Supreme Court ruling restoring the Aniocha North II State Constituency in Delta State ahead of the 2027 State House of Assembly elections.
The resolution emerged during the Senate’s plenary session, following a compelling motion by Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North), who underscored the constitution’s requirement for full compliance with judicial decisions.
The Senate acted unanimously through a voice vote, signaling strong commitment to restoring democratic representation for communities that have long been disenfranchised.
The restoration follows a protracted legal battle dating back more than a decade. Communities including Idumuje-Unor, Idumuje-Ugboko, Nkwu-Nzu, Ugboba, Idumuogo, Ugbodu, Ubulubu, Anioma, and Ogodo in Aniocha North Local Government Area tirelessly pursued judicial redress after the constituency was suppressed.
In 2017, the Court of Appeal (Benin Division) ruled that the constituency must be restored and elections held. INEC appealed, but on November 29, 2019, the Supreme Court dismissed INEC’s appeal, affirming the earlier ruling as legally final and binding under Section 115 of the constitution.
Despite this binding judgment, implementation stalled, leaving thousands without representation for years.
At the heart of Senate’s action was a pointed call for compliance with the constitution. Senate President Godswill Akpabio declared approval for INEC to ensure the restored constituency is reflected in the 2027 State House of Assembly polls following the end of the current Assembly’s tenure.
He stressed that “a Supreme Court decision is final and must be implemented,” echoing public sentiment in favour of upholding democratic rights.
The Senate also urged the House of Representatives to concur with the resolution and promptly communicate with INEC to expedite implementation, emphasizing the urgency of giving the affected communities their rightful political voice.
For residents of the communities long excluded from legislative representation, the Senate’s resolution marks a historic triumph.
Civil society actors and constituency stakeholders have applauded the development, noting how the move reinforces confidence in Nigeria’s democratic architecture and legal institutions.
The restoration not only corrects a historical imbalance but also ensures that the people of Aniocha North II can elect a representative who will advocate for local development, infrastructure, and public services they have been denied.
Senator Nwoko, whose motion catalyzed the Senate’s action, reiterated his long-standing commitment to ensuring that all Nigerians have equitable access to political representation, a cornerstone of participatory governance.
