**Date:** September 6, 2023
The Delta State Election Petition Tribunal has ordered a rerun election in Warri South Local Government Area of the state for the Delta South Senatorial District. This decision came as a result of a petition filed by Michael Diden, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, challenging the victory of Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas (JOT), the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, in the 2023 National Assembly elections.
The tribunal, led by Justice Cathrine Ogunsola, declared that the election that brought in Joel-Onowakpo was inconclusive and ordered the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a supplementary election in the Warri South council area of Delta South senatorial district within 90 days.
In response to the tribunal’s decision, Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas expressed his awareness of the judgment and his intention to appeal the ruling. He cited preliminary grounds for appeal and assured his supporters that he would defend his mandate.
Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas urged his supporters and APC faithfuls in Delta South Senatorial District to remain calm and maintain unity. He expressed confidence that his mandate would be defended, and he would continue to represent the district in the Senate for the next four years.
