Ughelli, Delta State – January 18, 2026 — Rt. Hon. (Rev.) Francis Ejiroghene Waive, the member representing Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has issued a strong call to action for residents to fully engage in the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The appeal, made public on Sunday, January 18, via the lawmaker's verified Facebook page, highlights growing concerns over the low turnout of new registrations in the constituency amid preparations for future elections, including the 2027 general polls.
The CVR, a nationwide process aimed at updating and expanding the national register of voters, resumed its second phase on January 5, 2026, following the completion of the first phase in late 2025. INEC's initiative, which began with online pre-registration in August 2025 and transitioned to in-person enrollment, allows eligible Nigerians—including those who have turned 18 since the last major elections, individuals who have relocated, those who lost or damaged their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and others needing updates—to register or make corrections. The exercise is scheduled to continue in phases until August 30, 2026, providing ample time for participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Waive, a clergyman, accountant, and second-term federal lawmaker from the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed deep worry about the "negligible number" of newly registered voters in his constituency. He noted that many eligible citizens, particularly young people who have recently attained voting age, have not yet taken advantage of the opportunity. The federal representative emphasized that voter registration is not merely an administrative task but a fundamental civic responsibility that forms the foundation of meaningful democratic participation.
"Voting is a fundamental civic right, while registering to vote is a civic responsibility," Waive stated in his message. "While citizens do not choose the country of their birth, they have a duty to contribute to its development, and voter registration is the starting point of meaningful civic participation." He urged constituents not to treat the exercise lightly, warning that low participation could weaken the constituency's political influence, reduce its bargaining power for development projects, and limit effective representation at both state and national levels.
To address the low turnout, Waive disclosed proactive efforts already in motion. These include mobilizing town criers to reach grassroots and rural communities, collaborating with civil society organizations for awareness campaigns, and leveraging social media platforms to target urban and youth populations. His office has also formally appealed to INEC to extend registration activities deeper into rural areas, ensuring broader coverage and accessibility for hard-to-reach communities in Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu—local government areas known for their mix of urban centers, oil-producing communities, and agrarian populations.
The lawmaker further clarified the scope of the CVR, noting that it accommodates not only first-time voters but also those who have changed residences (requiring a transfer of polling units) and individuals seeking to replace lost, damaged, or defaced PVCs. He encouraged all eligible residents to visit the nearest INEC office promptly to complete registration or updates, cautioning that the registration window may not be extended beyond the planned timeline.
Waive's appeal aligns with his consistent advocacy for stronger civic engagement in Delta Central Senatorial District. In recent months, he has repeatedly highlighted declining voter numbers as a threat to the region's political relevance, urging massive mobilization during APC stakeholders' meetings and constituency forums. As a representative who has championed grassroots empowerment, including youth summits and endorsements of national and state leaders, Waive views robust voter registration as essential for amplifying the voices of Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu residents.
Born on May 21, 1966, in Lagos, Waive is a trained accountant who worked at Oceanic Bank (now part of Ecobank) before transitioning to ministry. He founded the Church of the Anointing in Warri in 1997 and established the Riverine Communities Health & Development Organization to support medically underserved areas in the Niger Delta. First elected to the House in 2019, he has faced and overcome legal challenges to his victories, including tribunal and appellate rulings, while serving as Chairman of the House Committee on Rules and Business in the 10th Assembly.
His call comes at a critical juncture for Nigeria's electoral process, as INEC continues phased CVR nationwide (with suspensions in specific areas like Anambra and the FCT for ongoing polls). Low participation in constituencies like Waive's could impact future electoral outcomes, resource allocation, and advocacy for federal projects in the oil-rich Urhobo heartland.
Reaffirming his dedication to the constituency, Waive encouraged every eligible resident to seize the opportunity: "Active participation in voter registration is how we strengthen our democracy and ensure our interests are represented." He reiterated that a larger, more engaged voter base would enhance the constituency's ability to attract meaningful development and hold leaders accountable.
As the CVR progresses, stakeholders in Ughelli North, Ughelli South, and Udu are expected to intensify mobilization efforts, building on Waive's leadership to boost registration numbers and secure a stronger voice in Nigeria's democratic future.
