By Michael Agbaji
The Senate of Nigeria has directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to immediately restore three state constituencies in Benue State—Ukum II, Konshisha II (Shangev–Tiev), and Gboko East I—ahead of the 2027 general elections, in compliance with a subsisting judgment of the Court of Appeal.
This resolution followed a motion moved by the Chairman, Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, Emmanuel Memga Udende, who raised concerns over INEC’s failure to implement the court’s ruling delivered on December 5, 2025, in Makurdi.
Presenting the motion, Senator Udende noted that the Court of Appeal granted all reliefs sought, including a directive compelling INEC to conduct elections in the affected constituencies during the 2027 general elections without fail.
He emphasized that INEC, as established under Section 153(f) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), is constitutionally mandated to organize, undertake, and supervise elections into all elective offices.
He further referenced Sections 91, 112, 113, and 114 of the Constitution, which collectively empower the Commission to create, review, and adjust constituency boundaries in line with population dynamics and equitable representation.
The Senate observed that the constituencies in question existed during the Second and Third Republics and were unjustly merged or removed in the Fourth Republic without adequate constitutional justification.
This, lawmakers argued, led to democratic exclusion, population imbalance, and under-representation of affected communities.
According to Senator Udende, the Afia and Shangev–Tiev communities possess distinct demographic, cultural, and economic identities and deserve fair legislative representation.
He warned that continued delay in implementing the court’s judgment could erode public confidence in democratic institutions and undermine electoral credibility.
In its resolutions, the Senate:
Directed INEC to urgently restore the affected constituencies in line with the Court of Appeal judgment.
Urged the Commission to update electoral boundaries, voter registers, and administrative frameworks accordingly.
Mandated its Committee on INEC and Electoral Matters to engage the Commission, ensure compliance, and provide a clear implementation timeline.
Called on the National Assembly and the Executive to provide adequate funding and technical support to facilitate the process.
Requested concurrence from the House of Representatives.
The Senate stressed that the restoration of these constituencies is critical to ensuring equity, peace, political stability, and credible elections in Benue State.
