Ugochinyere, Ideato stakeholders commend INEC for upholding due process, electoral integrity

The people of Ideato Federal Constituency and the member representing the constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, have commended the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, and the National Commissioners of the Commission for rejecting the proposed relocation of the Ideato Federal Constituency headquarters and collation centre from Urualla to Dikenafai.

The commendation followed the decision reportedly reached at the Commission’s management meeting on Thursday, September 24, 2026, to maintain the existing arrangement in Urualla.

The development brings relief to stakeholders across Ideato North and Ideato South, who had raised concerns over the reported proposal and called for transparency, due process and broad stakeholder consultation in any decision affecting the administration of elections in the constituency.

Reacting to the decision through a statement made available to Blueprint, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere described it as a demonstration of institutional responsibility and a reaffirmation of INEC’s commitment to protecting the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.

He commended Prof. Amupitan and the National Commissioners for examining the matter objectively and ensuring that decisions with significant implications for voters and electoral stakeholders are subjected to appropriate administrative processes.

Ugochinyere said: “This is a welcome development and a clear demonstration that the leadership of INEC under Prof. Joash Amupitan is committed to due process, fairness and the integrity of our electoral system. We commend the Chairman and the entire Commission for listening to the concerns raised by the people of Ideato and for taking a decision that reinforces confidence in the electoral process. Ideato people have spoken clearly. Any decision affecting the electoral administration of our constituency must be transparent, properly evaluated and undertaken with the participation of relevant stakeholders.”

He further stated that the decision should put to rest the controversy surrounding the proposed relocation and allow attention to return to preparations for credible, peaceful and transparent elections.

The lawmaker also urged all stakeholders to support INEC and other relevant institutions in creating an environment conducive to the conduct of free and credible elections.