Ozoro, Delta State — For decades, the people of Isoko North Local Government Area have been short-changed in the Delta State House of Assembly. While Isoko South enjoys two state constituencies, Isoko North has been left with just one — a situation many describe as unjust and inequitable.
How It All Started
Following the 1998 constituency delimitation exercise by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Isoko North Constituency II (also referred to as Isoko North II) was among several seats across Nigeria that were “suppressed” or delisted. Before 1999, Isoko North had two state assembly seats. The reduction left the entire LGA with only one representative — currently Hon. Bernard Odior.
This suppression triggered legal battles. A Federal High Court in Warri had earlier ordered the restoration of suppressed constituencies, including in Isoko North, but full implementation has remained elusive for Isoko North II despite court victories in similar cases.
Current Developments
On 30th April 2026, INEC issued a major memo (Ref: INEC/HQ/EOPS/DEL/S.32/213) announcing the commencement of technical processes to restore 20 court-ordered suppressed state constituencies nationwide. In Delta State, four are targeted for fieldwork, stakeholder engagement, mapping, and validation: Ethiope West I, Sapele II, Ika North East II, and one pending.
Isoko North II is not yet on this initial list, prompting renewed advocacy from Isoko leaders, groups, and elected officials.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (representing Delta South) has publicly used Isoko North II as a case study in the Senate, pushing for the restoration of all delisted constituencies in Delta State to ensure fair representation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Why It Matters for Isoko Nation
Restoring Isoko North II would:
- Give Isoko North two seats in the Delta State House of Assembly, matching Isoko South.
- Increase Delta State’s total seats from 29 to approximately 32–33.
- Strengthen grassroots representation, development, and political voice for communities across the LGA.
Isoko leaders and stakeholders are urged to intensify engagements with INEC, traditional institutions, and elected representatives to ensure Isoko North II is included in the ongoing technical processes.
The Isoko Nation has always stood for justice and equity. This is another opportunity to speak with one voice. The restoration of our suppressed constituency is not just a political matter — it is about fairness, development, and securing a better future for our children.
#RestoreIsokoNorthII Isoko Nation Rising!
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