Senator Ned Nwoko has commended the Federal Government, Judiciary, Nigerian Senate, and other key stakeholders for their roles in the successful restoration of Aniocha North II State Constituency. He stated that this development would strengthen democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking with Vanguard on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Senator Nwoko expressed gratitude to his constituents and acknowledged the contributions of critical stakeholders toward achieving this milestone.

Nwoko also appreciated fellow legislators who supported his motion, as well as other key figures who played vital roles in ensuring the restoration of Aniocha North II State Constituency in Delta State, in compliance with the Supreme Court judgment (Suit No. SC/129/2019). The Nigerian Senate approved the restoration on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, the Senate approved the restoration following a motion sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko (APC-Delta North) during plenary. The Senate further directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to comply with its resolution.

Senator Nwoko expressed his excitement over the achievement, emphasizing its significance for democracy.

“I am very happy about this great political achievement for my constituents in Aniocha North, Delta North, Delta State, and Nigeria as a whole. First and foremost, we give all the glory to God.

We also thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, the legislature, the Judiciary, and all critical stakeholders who made this possible. This is a victory for democracy, and the entire Anioma people and Delta Northerners send their appreciation.”

He further noted that the Senate had directed the restoration of the constituency to take effect in the next Delta State House of Assembly election, after the current term expires, in line with Section 115 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Senator Nwoko explained the legal journey leading to this moment:

“In 2014, the people of Idumuje-Unor, Idumuje-Ugboko, Nkwu-Nzu, Ugboba, Idumuogo, Ugbodu, Ubulubu, Anioma, and Ogodo towns in Aniocha North filed a legal case at the Federal High Court in Asaba seeking the restoration of Aniocha North II State Constituency.

The Federal High Court dismissed the case, but the Court of Appeal in Benin ruled in favor of the people on November 22, 2017, ordering the restoration and instructing INEC to conduct elections in the constituency.

INEC appealed to the Supreme Court, but on November 29, 2019, the Supreme Court dismissed the appeal, affirming the judgment as final, binding, and legally non-appealable.”

Senator Nwoko also commended INEC for its efforts in implementing the court’s ruling.

“Following the Supreme Court judgment, INEC met with stakeholders on November 19, 2020, and later submitted a report to the National Assembly for consideration.

We must appreciate INEC’s support and commitment to ensuring that justice is served in line with Section 115 of the Constitution.”

Nwoko extended his appreciation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the Senate leadership, INEC, and members of the House of Representatives for their support in ensuring the successful resolution of the matter.

“The Senate leadership and my colleagues in the House of Representatives have done the needful by upholding the Supreme Court’s ruling. Now, INEC will proceed with the necessary steps, ensuring that the issue is fully resolved. This is a win for democracy.”