Edo State Deputy Governor Calls for Immediate Action on Oil Well Dispute
Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has raised concerns over the ongoing dispute between Edo and Delta states regarding oil wells located in the Orogho and Urhonigbe communities. In a recent address in Benin City, the state capital, he called on President Bola Tinubu to halt further drilling of crude oil in these contested areas until the boundary issue is resolved.
Idahosa made his appeal during a meeting with members of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), led by its Director-General, Adamu Adaji. The deputy governor emphasized the need for fairness and justice in resolving the conflict, urging the Federal Government to freeze the accounts of Delta State-based oil companies operating in the affected regions.
According to a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Friday Aghedo, Idahosa argued that the measures were necessary to ensure that no benefits from the disputed oil wells accrue to Delta State until the matter is settled. He criticized Delta State for what he described as “games” being played with the situation and the National Boundary Commission.
“I want to use this opportunity to appeal to the President to stop, or instruct the regulatory agencies to stop, all benefits accruing to Delta State pending when this matter is resolved,” Idahosa said. “It is clear that Delta State is playing games with us and with the National Boundary Commission. It is also clear that they do not want this matter resolved, knowing fully well that those assets belong to Edo State.”
He further urged the NBC to thoroughly examine all documents related to the disputed oil wells before making a determination on their rightful ownership.
Despite what he described as “provocation” from Delta State, Idahosa noted that the Orogho and Urhonigbe communities had remained peaceful and law-abiding. This resilience has been praised by local residents, who have expressed satisfaction with the Edo State Government’s efforts to reclaim ownership of the disputed assets.
National Boundary Commission Reaffirms Commitment
The NBC Director-General, Adamu Adaji, reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to resolving the matter urgently. He stated that the team’s visit was driven by the need to ensure progress after several delays.
“We cannot allow a party to delay the process. There must be an end to it. We have come to a point where we will interface with the two sides, meet some individuals if need be, for clarity, and ensure this issue is resolved once and for all,” Adaji said. “This will be done in accordance with available delineation documents and other standard methods to identify and make recommendations to the Federal Government for adoption.”
The dispute between Edo and Delta states has been ongoing, particularly following a recent controversy involving Seplat Energy. The company allegedly ceded six oil wells in the Orogho community of Edo State to Delta State. The Edo State Government has since taken steps to address the issue, including engaging Delta authorities, interfacing with relevant agencies, and reassuring the Orogho community of its commitment to reclaiming ownership of the disputed assets.
Residents of the Orogho community have welcomed the government’s prompt action, noting that royalties were previously paid to Edo State before Seplat took over operations. This historical context underscores the significance of the dispute and the importance of resolving it in favor of Edo State.
Ongoing Tensions and Community Response
The situation remains tense, with both states vying for control over the oil wells. However, the communities involved have shown remarkable restraint, maintaining peace despite the ongoing conflict. This stability is crucial for ensuring that the resolution process can proceed without further complications.
As the National Boundary Commission continues its work, the focus remains on finding a fair and lasting solution to the dispute. The outcome will not only determine the future of the oil wells but also set a precedent for how such boundary issues are handled in the future.
For now, the call for immediate action from Edo State officials highlights the urgency of the matter and the need for swift intervention from the Federal Government. The path forward will require cooperation, transparency, and a commitment to justice for all parties involved.