By Temi Kingsway Eyoyibo
Delineation of local government areas (LGAs) in Nigeria is a critical process that involves defining and refining the geographical boundaries for administrative governance. Understanding the difference between delineation and census is essential for grasping their respective roles within the context of Nigeria’s political landscape.
Difference Between Census and Delineation
- CENSUS
The census refers to a systematic and comprehensive headcount of individuals residing in a specific area. It includes the collection of demographic data such as population size, age distribution, and socio-economic status. This data is crucial for planning, resource allocation, and development initiatives.
- DELINEATION
In contrast, delineation focuses on establishing precise geographical boundaries of local government areas. This process utilizes land coordinate systems to define the limits of each area accurately. Delineation ensures the administrative divisions reflect legal standards and geographical realities.
THE ROLE OF DELINEATION IN ELECTION
In Nigeria, the process of delineation is particularly significant during elections. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) relies on accurate delineation to determine the exact boundaries of each local government area, which is essential for various electoral functions:
VOTER REGISTRATION
Accurate delineation allows for appropriate voter registration within designated local government areas. This is important for maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
POLL LOCATIONS
Well-defined boundaries facilitate the planning of polling locations, ensuring they are accessible to eligible voters in each area.
ELECTION OUTCOME
Clear boundaries help in the accurate reporting and tallying of election results by allowing votes to be counted within precise jurisdictions.
The law makes it mandatory for delineation to occur every ten years to account for demographic changes, especially as children under the age of 18 become eligible to vote. This regular update is vital to ensure that electoral representation reflects the current population dynamics and it’s a fundamental process in Nigeria’s governance, particularly in relation to elections.
For instance, Delta State covers a total area of approximately 17,698 square kilometers. Within it, Warri South West local government area encompasses about 1,722 square kilometers. This data can be cross-verified with documents from the National Boundary Commission and juxtapose with the Ministry of Land and Survey, ensuring the accuracy of the delineation process.
REDUCING ETHNIC TENSION
The objective nature of the delineation process, grounded in factual data and legal frameworks, aims to minimize misunderstandings regarding political representation. When accurate documents and legitimate geographical measurements are presented, there should be no justification for any ethnic group to feel shortchanged. The use of precise coordinates and maps leaves little room for subjective claims because lands are untransferrable, establishing a transparent basis for electoral boundaries.
This delineation issue warrants careful consideration due to the varying sentiments attached to it by different ethnic groups across the country. In a nation characterized by its diversity, the political intricacies of ward delineation can influence electoral outcomes and representation.
One of the key points of contention is the perception that local government areas or wards where elections would possibly be boycotted can render a federal, state or local government election inconclusive is leaving in self-denial with little or no consequence. This perspective is problematic because it doesn’t capture the requirement for a certain quorum for elections to be deemed invalid and as such the absence of voting in specific areas, wards, or units will not automatically lead to a conclusion of inconclusiveness. It is therefore important to establish clear criteria that define when an election can be considered invalid or inconclusive, which should include considerations of voter turnout and representation.
it is crucial to recognize that the participation of all ethnic groups in Nigeria’s electoral process is vital for equitable representation. Some factions might operate under the misconception that the interests of their groups align solely with those of the president or governor. However, true representation requires understanding that the diversity and mental outlook contributes to the overall governance and welfare of the nation.
Addressing grievances amicably and inclusively can foster a more harmonious political climate. By involving a thoughtful balance argument rather than, a threat of elections boycott, exclusion or division, will ultimately not serve the interests any ethnic groups because certain units, wards and local government areas weren’t included at the peak of boko haram menace in the north east of Nigeria but election still went on. The laws cannot be broken, we can only break ourselves against the law.
Temi Kingsway Eyoyibo is a social pundit and writes from Delta State.
