- Oborevwori Tells Monarch, Stakeholders
BY SAM DUVWODE
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has called for a massive, coordinated grassroots mobilization effort to address the “disappointingly low” voter turnout recorded during the initial phase of the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) exercise.
Speaking today during an Engagement and Advocacy Meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at Asaba, the Governor expressed concern that many eligible citizens are currently excluded from the democratic process due to apathy and information gaps.
The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, while addressing a diverse assembly of traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations, emphasized that a credible and inclusive voter’s register is the foundation of any thriving democracy.
The Governor said, “The Continuous Voters Registration exercise is the gateway to democratic participation. It guarantees that eligible citizens are empowered to exercise their constitutional right to vote and to contribute meaningfully to governance. A credible electoral process begins with a credible and inclusive voters register.
“The first phase of the CVR exercise, which ended on 10th December 2025, unfortunately recorded a very low turnout in Delta State. This development should concern all of us and highlight the need for stronger awareness, deeper engagement, and collective action to address apathy and bridge information gaps.
“With the commencement of the second phase in January 2026, we have a renewed opportunity to significantly boost participation across the State.
“I call on traditional rulers, religious leaders, political parties, civil society organizations, youth and women’s groups, and the media to intensify grassroots mobilization and take this message directly to our communities.
“Together, through collaboration, sustained advocacy, and a shared commitment to democratic participation, we can ensure a higher turnout in this second phase of the CVR exercise and strengthen the foundations of democracy in Delta State.
“I urge all eligible citizens, especially our youths and first-time voters to seize this opportunity to register and be counted, as you are the future of our democracy.
“I commend the Independent National Electoral Commission for complementing this engagement with a roadshow, which will further raise awareness and encourage participation.
“The Delta State Government fully supports this initiative and remains committed to providing an enabling environment for INEC to carry out its constitutional mandate.
“Let us all, together, take this message to our communities, encourage active participation, and reaffirm our collective commitment to a credible, inclusive, and vibrant democratic process.”
Earlier in an address, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, INEC, Delta State, Sir Etekamba Udo Umoren disclosed that the first phase of Continuous Voter Registration exercise commenced on August 18, 2025 and ended on December 10, 2025,
“The online and physical registrations combined, gave a total of 76, 667 persons captured during the first phase in Delta State; this figure reflects the number of eligible Nigerians who completed their registration in Delta State during the first phase and now stand prepared to participate in shaping the future of this great nation through the ballot.
“While this number may not be the true reflection of the eligible registrants in Delta State, it remains but a fraction of our eligible voting population which underscores the need for a robust awareness, renewed commitment, and intensified civic engagement,” he said.
