Delta Communities Threaten Warri Refinery Shutdown Over INEC

Communities in Warri, Delta State, have threatened to shut down the Warri refinery due to dissatisfaction with the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) ward delineation process. The residents, including elders, women, and youth from communities such as Ifiekporo, Ajaetan, Ikerem, and Utunwa, staged a peaceful protest to express their grievances.

They are demanding the creation of the Ijala ward, which they argue is necessary for proper representation and reflects their economic strength. The INEC's recent fieldwork was met with disappointment as the proposed delineation did not increase the number of wards since 1991, which the communities find unacceptable.

They assert that if their demands for the Ijala ward are not met, they will take action to shut down oil operations in the area, emphasizing that their request is non-negotiable. Community leaders, including Pa Michael Domino and others, have voiced their determination to ensure their voices are heard.