Edo State Calls for Presidential Intervention in Oil Well Conflict
The Edo State Government has made an urgent appeal to President Bola Tinubu to immediately halt all crude oil drilling activities in the contested oil wells located along the disputed boundary between Edo and Delta States.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa issued this passionate plea during a meeting in Benin on Friday while receiving the Director General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Adamu Adaji, and his delegation.
Demand for Account Freeze and Fairness
Idahosa specifically requested that President Tinubu instruct regulatory agencies to freeze accounts belonging to Delta-based oil companies operating in the disputed territories. He argued that this decisive action would ensure fairness while investigations into the boundary matter continue.
"I want to appeal to the President to instruct regulatory agencies to stop all benefits accruing to Delta State until this matter is resolved," Idahosa stated emphatically. "It is clear that Delta State is playing games with us and with the NBC. They know these assets belong to Edo State."
The deputy governor expressed frustration with the pace of resolution, noting that Edo State had submitted all required documentation since July, while Delta State had yet to provide their supporting documents to the boundary commission.
Impact on Local Communities
Idahosa voiced serious concerns about the dispute's effect on residents of affected communities, particularly Orogho and Urhonigbe. He praised the communities for maintaining peace despite growing tensions but warned of potential escalation if the situation remains unresolved.
"Our people are suffering from resources meant to benefit them. If this issue lingers, it could lead to internal or communal crises. That is why we want it resolved as soon as possible," the deputy governor cautioned.
He emphasized that the prolonged dispute denies local residents access to developmental benefits that should rightfully come from the natural resources extracted from their land.
NBC's Commitment to Resolution
In his response, NBC Director General Adamu Adaji reaffirmed the commission's dedication to bringing closure to the boundary dispute. He explained that his visit to Edo State was part of accelerated efforts to resolve the matter promptly.
"We cannot allow any party to delay the process. We will interface with both sides individually where clarity is needed," Adaji assured. "This will be done using available delineation documents and established procedures before making recommendations to the Federal Government."
The director general emphasized that the commission would follow due process and examine all available evidence before submitting its final recommendations to the federal government.
Governor Okpebholo's Development Update
In a related development, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo announced that his administration has created over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs since assuming office. The governor made this revelation during celebrations marking his administration's first year in office.
Okpebholo also disclosed the launch of a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme designed to support small businesses and traders across the state. According to the governor, his first year in office has focused on restoring public trust and rebuilding foundational structures.
The governor highlighted his administration's shift from what he described as "PowerPoint governance" to "Practical Governance" that directly impacts lives and transforms communities. He revealed that the administration inherited substantial financial challenges, including over ₦600 billion in local and foreign debts and ₦180 billion owed to various contractors.
Through prudent financial management and transparent governance under the SHINE Agenda, Governor Okpebholo reported that the government has significantly reduced this debt burden while continuing to deliver essential services and development projects to the people of Edo State.
