05/05/2026
STAKEHOLDERS’ ENGAGEMENT ON THE COMMENCEMENT OF TECHNICAL PROCESSES TOWARDS THE RESTORATION OF SUPPRESSED STATE CONSTITUENCIES IN BENUE STATE
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Benue State, held a Stakeholders’ Engagement on Tuesday, 5th May, 2026, in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. The engagement marked the formal commencement of technical processes towards the restoration of previously suppressed State constituencies in the State.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders whose roles are critical to the successful ex*****on of the exercise. The engagement provided a platform for dialogue, clarification of processes, and reinforcement of collaboration among all parties involved.
In his welcome address, the Honourable Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mallam Aminu Kasimu Idris, represented by the Administrative Secretary, Mr. Shikfu Sim Bewaran, warmly welcomed the National Commissioner supervising Benue State, Prof. Sunday Aja, Heads of Security Agencies, Traditional Rulers, Deputy Directors of the Commission, the Technical Team from the Commission’s Headquarters, Heads of Departments, the Media, Technical Team from the State Office, and other critical stakeholders drawn from the five affected Local Government Areas; Buruku, Gboko, Konshisha, Makurdi, and Ukum.
The Administrative Secretary conveyed the REC’s commitment to ensuring a seamless, transparent, and credible process. He emphasized the importance of cooperation from all stakeholders and called for sustained support to guarantee the success of the exercise.
In his address, the National Commissioner supervising Benue State, Prof. Sunday Aja, reassured stakeholders of the Commission’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law and strengthening democratic representation. He noted that the exercise is a critical step towards ensuring fair and equitable representation in line with constitutional provisions.
Delivering a presentation on the purpose and objectives of the engagement, the Assistant Director (Districting), Mr. Valentine Ewa, explained that the exercise would involve extensive field-level stakeholders engagement across the affected constituencies.
He highlighted that the process would include the collection of vital geographical and demographic data necessary for the production, review, and validation of constituency maps, as well as other technical documentation required for the restoration process. He stressed that stakeholders input would be instrumental in ensuring accuracy, inclusiveness, and transparency.
In his remarks, the Governor, Rev. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, who was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Sam Ode, noted that the restoration of the suppressed constituencies is in compliance with judicial pronouncements. He emphasized that the exercise is not a discretionary action by the Commission, but rather a lawful obligation that must be carried out accordingly. He further urged stakeholders to cooperate fully with INEC to ensure a smooth and hitch-free process, and he assured the Commission of the State Government’s collaboration.
The engagement concluded with a shared understanding among stakeholders on the importance of the exercise and the need for collaboration at all stages of the process. Participants expressed their readiness to support the Commission in achieving a credible and successful outcome.