The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) convened a meeting on Tuesday in Makurdi with stakeholders and opinion leaders regarding the potential restoration of four suppressed state constituencies, in compliance with court orders. The affected constituencies include Gboko III (Central), Konshisha (Shangev Tiev), Makurdi III (South East), and Ukum III (Afia).
Engagement with Key Personalities
The parley, titled “Stakeholders Engagement on Commencement of Technical Process towards Restoration of Suppressed State Constituencies,” featured prominent figures such as former Senator Professor Daniel Saror, Senator Fred Orti, Professor Mvendaga Jibo, and former Speaker (pro tempore) of the House of Representatives, Rt Hon Terngu Tsegba. These leaders interacted with INEC and other stakeholders to ensure a seamless process.
Call for Cooperation
INEC Commissioner supervising Benue, Professor Sunday Ajah, urged stakeholders, the state government, and the people of Benue to cooperate in order to expedite the restoration process. Similarly, Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Dr Sam Ode, charged stakeholders to resolve all issues quickly to enable the election of representatives into the restored constituencies as soon as possible.
Governor Alia emphasized that INEC is only complying with court orders based on judgments passed, and the commission lacks the authority to alter delineated constituencies. He called for rancor-free deliberations and assured INEC of the Benue State Government’s full cooperation for the success of the exercise.
