OSOPADEC

OSOPADEC Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission

OSOPADEC BIDS AMUTOLAYAN FAREWELL, HAILS DEDICATED SERVICEThe Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSO...
04/09/2026

OSOPADEC BIDS AMUTOLAYAN FAREWELL, HAILS DEDICATED SERVICE

The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has bid farewell to one of its Chief Motor-Driver Mechanic, Mr. Ojo Amutolayan, following his retirement after years of dedicated service.

Management, staff, colleagues, friends and well-wishers gathered at a send-forth ceremony to honour Amutolayan and celebrate his contributions to the Commission.

The ceremony featured emotional tributes, prayers and commendations, with speakers describing the retiree as disciplined, peaceful, mature and committed to his duties.

The Director of Legal Services, Barrister Pamela Olowoyo, described Amutolayan as a pleasant and peaceful person who avoided gossip and preferred to keep to himself.

According to her, his quiet disposition taught colleagues valuable lessons on maintaining peace and avoiding unnecessary talk about others.

She thanked God for preserving his life and seeing him through his years of service.

The Director of Human Resources, Mrs. Adebimpe Ademibo Aletile, said the ceremony was not only to mark the end of Amutolayan’s career but also to appreciate his contributions to the growth of OSOPADEC.

Aletile urged staff to uphold unity, peace and responsible conduct, stressing that organisational progress depended on cooperation and mutual support among workers.

The Commission’s Chief Driver, Mr. Yomi Ojabogun, described Amutolayan as a man of good character, wisdom and maturity who maintained cordial relationships with colleagues.

Responding, Amutolayan expressed appreciation to the Board, management and staff for the opportunity to serve and for the support he enjoyed throughout his career.

He particularly thanked his colleagues in the Transportation Unit, describing their friendship, cooperation and support as an important part of his journey at OSOPADEC.

The retiree also thanked God for seeing him through his years of service and granting him the grace to retire in good health, with the support of his family, colleagues and friends.

APC PEACE DRIVE: POROYE LEADS ONDO RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE TO MEET TUNJI-OJO- PARTY LEADERS SEEK TO BRIDGE DIVISIONS AN...
04/09/2026

APC PEACE DRIVE: POROYE LEADS ONDO RECONCILIATION COMMITTEE TO MEET TUNJI-OJO

- PARTY LEADERS SEEK TO BRIDGE DIVISIONS AND RESTORE UNITY AHEAD OF 2027 GENERAL ELECTION

Efforts to resolve internal divisions within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State gathered fresh momentum yesterday, as the party’s reconciliation committee met with the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in Abuja, all in a bid to strengthen unity among its members.

The delegation was led by the Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, who heads the state APC Reconciliation Committee.

The meeting, described by the committee as crucial engagement, focused on the need to address longstanding disagreements, rebuild trust and foster greater cooperation among key stakeholders within the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general election.

Poroye, speaking on behalf of the delegation, said the committee remained committed to engaging members across the party’s various factions and listening to differing perspectives as part of efforts to find common ground.

He stressed that reconciliation would be critical to building a stronger and more cohesive APC in the state, arguing that the party could only fully harness its political strength when its members were prepared to work together despite their differences.

Poroye said the reconciliation efforts would continue with consultations involving stakeholders across the political divide noting that the objective was to identify areas of disagreement and develop solutions capable of restoring confidence and mutual understanding.

The OSOPADEC Boss, reiterated that the unity, stability and progress of the party would remain at the centre of the reconciliation efforts.

DECEMBER DEADLINE: OSOPADEC BOSS ORDERS FINAL PUSH ON ABOTO-ATIJERE ROAD- "No More Excuses, Road Must Be Delivered Befor...
03/09/2026

DECEMBER DEADLINE: OSOPADEC BOSS ORDERS FINAL PUSH ON ABOTO-ATIJERE ROAD

- "No More Excuses, Road Must Be Delivered Before December" - Poroye

The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has intensified pressure on the contractor handling the Aboto-Atijere road project, declaring that the road must be completed and opened to traffic before December.

The Executive Chairman of OSOPADEC, Prince Biyi Poroye, gave the marching order on Wednesday during the project inspection, saying Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa had issued a clear directive that there must be no delay in delivering the road.

Poroye, who expressed satisfaction with the pace of work, said the project had reached a critical stage, with earthworks advancing towards Atijere and construction activities continuing despite the rainy season.

"On this particular road, the Governor has given what I would call an executive order to ensure that we deliver it before December," he said.

Poroye said the people had taken ownership of the project by monitoring the work and scrutinising its progress, stressing that such community involvement would make it difficult for anyone to misrepresent the actual situation at the project site.

According to him, residents and social critics should go beyond social media commentaries by physically visiting project sites to assess the performance of the government.

"This is not a road where you can tell lies. I have seen social critics on social media visiting the project site on their own. That is actually the best way society can be developed.

"You don't just sit in the comfort of your room to criticise or praise government. People should go to project sites, see things for themselves and assess the extent of development."

Poroye commended the contractor for maintaining its presence on site and keeping faith with its commitment to the commission.

"So far, the contractor has done well and has made us proud by keeping to its word," he said.

He described the Aboto-Atijere road as a major economic and connectivity corridor capable of transforming movement within the oil-producing areas and linking the area more efficiently with neighbouring Ogun State.

"The road is very important to the mandate area. It connects us to our sister state, Ogun State, and significantly shortens the journey.

"With the coastal road being undertaken by the Federal Government from Lagos, this is going to become a very enterprising corridor and environment for everyone to enjoy."

Poroye also praised youths and residents of communities along the route for supporting rather than frustrating the contractor.

The OSOPADEC chairman also dismissed the rainy season as an excuse for abandoning work, saying advances in construction technology had made it possible to continue major projects during adverse weather.

"Even though it is the rainy season, the contractor has not stopped work because technology has advanced beyond the level where contractors use the weather as an excuse,"he said.

The Executive Director, Projects, OSOPADEC, Dr. Olujimi Kufo, while speaking to OSOPADEC media crew, said the inspection took the team to kilometre 16 of the project, which he described as one of the critical sections of the road.

Kufo said the contractor had remained on course with the approved work programme and was paying particular attention to culverts that could determine the long-term performance of the road.

"We are at kilometre 16 of the main project. As the Chairman has earlier mentioned, this is a critical project which, based on the directive of Mr. Governor, we are giving so much attention to," he said.

"We are impressed with the performance of the contractor so far. They are working in line with the programme we have put in place, and we are confident that, in accordance with the directive of the Executive Governor, this project will be completed before December and ready for commissioning," Kufo said.

The project consultant, Engineer Joseph Odunayo, said the construction had substantially advanced the earthworks towards Atijere township.

He added that stone-base laying had also progressed to beyond kilometre 14, after which the remaining sections would be prepared for asphalt surfacing.

"With the help of God, by December or on or before December, it will be connected fully,"he said.

The Director, Project Monitoring and Evaluation, OSOPADEC, Engineer Dipo Aluko, also expressed confidence that the December target remained achievable.

Aluko said the project had recorded "very enviable progress", noting that earthworks had already advanced to Atijere while teams were working simultaneously on the remaining culverts.

He identified three critical culverts at kilometre 16, kilometre 22 and kilometre 23, explaining that separate gangs had been deployed to handle the various culvert works simultaneously.

Aluko said the stone-base laying had already crossed kilometre 14 and that the contractor had deployed sufficient manpower, machinery and materials to meet the December deadline.

Meanwhile, a native of Akata town in Ilaje Local Government Area, Olorunwa Akinyemi, appealed to OSOPADEC to complement the road project with the construction of a small overhead stone jetty to protect residents from dangerous water waves.

Akinyemi, who said he had worked with the construction company for about four months, commended OSOPADEC and the Ondo State Government for paying attention to the development needs of Akata and Atijere people.

OSOPADEC, NDLEA PARTNER AGAINST DRUG ABUSE, INSECURITY IN ILAJE, ESE-ODO• Poroye seeks joint action with Navy, NSCDC on ...
03/09/2026

OSOPADEC, NDLEA PARTNER AGAINST DRUG ABUSE, INSECURITY IN ILAJE, ESE-ODO

• Poroye seeks joint action with Navy, NSCDC on waterways security

The Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have begun moves to deepen collaboration against drug abuse and insecurity in Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas of the state.

The Executive Chairman of OSOPADEC, Prince Biyi Poroye, stated this on Tuessday when he received the newly posted Ondo State Commander of the NDLEA, CN Folayemi Gabriel Adeyemo, who led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Commission’s headquarters.

Poroye said the fight against drug abuse and insecurity required a coordinated approach involving relevant government institutions and security agencies, particularly in the riverine communities and waterways of the state.

He disclosed that OSOPADEC was already exploring collaboration with Ondo State office of Marine and Blue Economy, stressing that the NDLEA should be part of the proposed security framework alongside the Nigerian Navy and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

According to him, such collaboration would provide a coordinated operational framework for securing the waterways and vulnerable communities within the Commission’s mandate areas.

“God has been so kind to us since we came on board. We have established cordial and functional relationship with security agencies in the State. We have remained focused and determined, and we have been able to drive home benefits and projects that are people-oriented. People can see what we are doing,” Poroye said.

The Chairman assured the NDLEA of OSOPADEC’s willingness to support the agency within the limits of its statutory mandate and available resources.

Poroye also proposed a sensitisation programme involving ex-militants, youths and other critical stakeholders as part of efforts to combat drug abuse at the grassroots.

He said taking the campaign directly to communities would help reach young people and other vulnerable groups who might otherwise remain outside the reach of conventional sensitisation programmes.

“Once the society is drug-free, it is for everybody’s benefit,” he said.

Poroye congratulated Adeyemo on his posting to Ondo State and wished him a successful and peaceful tenure.

Speaking earlier, CN Gabriel Adeyemo thanked OSOPADEC management for receiving his delegation, saying the visit was to formally introduce the new NDLEA command and strengthen the existing partnership between both organisations.

He noted that the mandates of OSOPADEC and the NDLEA were closely connected, particularly in protecting young people and communities from the dangers of drug abuse.

Adeyemo expressed concern over the increasing exposure of young people, including underage children, to illicit drugs, stressing that the trend was placing pressure on the state’s rehabilitation facilities, whose capacity he described as inadequate.

He therefore emphasised the need for stronger prevention, sensitisation and community-based interventions, disclosing that the NDLEA had intensified its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign in schools, markets, motor parks and other public places.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of OSOPADEC, F. A. Omomowo, commended the NDLEA delegation for the visit and stressed the importance of sustained cooperation among security agencies operating within the Commission’s mandate areas.

Omomowo described Poroye as a hospitable but firm leader who had continued to provide direction for the Commission.

He expressed optimism that the visit would herald a new chapter of stronger collaboration between OSOPADEC and the NDLEA in the fight against drug abuse and insecurity across the mandate areas.

ILAJE NEEDS UNITY, NOT DIVISION - POROYE TELLS INDIGENOUS SECURITY STAKEHOLDERS - OSOPADEC boss rallies support for Gov....
02/09/2026

ILAJE NEEDS UNITY, NOT DIVISION - POROYE TELLS INDIGENOUS SECURITY STAKEHOLDERS

- OSOPADEC boss rallies support for Gov. Aiyedatiwa's Development Strides

The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, has sounded a strong call for unity among indigenous security stakeholders, community leaders and other critical actors in Ilaje Local Government Area, declaring that peace and collective responsibility are critical to unlocking development opportunities in the oil-producing region.

Poroye made the call on Tuesday during a meeting with local security stakeholders and community leaders in Ilaje, where he urged them to put aside differences, respect constituted authority and work together to protect lives, property and the future of the people.

He stressed that security and development were inseparable, noting that a peaceful environment was necessary to attract investment, execute projects and create employment opportunities.

Reflecting on his emergence as OSOPADEC Chairman, Poroye said his commitment to community development long predated his appointment, recalling his involvement in community initiatives, including activities linked to the 2017 Amnesty Programme.

“I never thought of becoming OSOPADEC Chairman. It was God who made it possible, and I remain grateful to Governor Aiyedatiwa and the people who stood by me and supported my journey,” he said.

The OSOPADEC boss also urged stakeholders to sustain their support for the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, while advocating constructive engagement and collaboration with government to promote peace, development and the collective interests of the people.

According to him, although no leader is perfect, his interactions with the Governor had convinced him that the administration had a clear vision for the development of Ondo State.

“Leadership is not about perfection. What is important is having a clear plan, working together and giving the leadership the support required to deliver for the people,” Poroye said.

He explained that some development projects had experienced delays due to changes in government and other circumstances, assuring the people that OSOPADEC remained committed to projects that would improve their welfare and living conditions.

Poroye further called for accountability, proper planning and prudent management of resources, urging stakeholders to protect the natural resources of the oil-producing areas for the benefit of present and future generations.

He also assured the people, particularly youths, of opportunities for employment and productive engagement, urging them to remain focused and prepared to take advantage of legitimate opportunities.

Speaking at the meeting, the Chief Executive Officer of Seaman Security, Chief Otelo Mafimisebi, echoed the call for unity, responsible leadership and accountability.

Mafimisebi urged local security personnel, community leaders, government institutions and residents to strengthen collaboration, stressing that sustainable development could only be achieved through collective responsibility.

He also called for transparency in the management of development resources, respect for constituted leadership and responsible protection of forests and other environmental assets.

The indigenous security chief said peace, security, responsible leadership and development must move together, urging Ilaje stakeholders to remain united and committed to practical solutions to the challenges confronting their communities.

50 YEARS OF GRACE AND IMPACT: POROYE JOINS DIGNITARIES TO HONOUR OSOPADEC BOARD MEMBER, OLA JUDAH, IN GRAND GOLDEN JUBIL...
01/09/2026

50 YEARS OF GRACE AND IMPACT: POROYE JOINS DIGNITARIES TO HONOUR OSOPADEC BOARD MEMBER, OLA JUDAH, IN GRAND GOLDEN JUBILEE CELEBRATION

The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, on Sunday joined eminent personalities, traditional rulers, spiritual leaders and other dignitaries from Ilaje and beyond to celebrate the 50th Golden Jubilee Anniversary of the Mount Shiloh Zion Assembly in Sapele, Delta State.

The anniversary celebration was organised under the leadership of the General Overseer of the church and OSOPADEC Board member, Primate (Dr.) Ola Judah, the Ajibokun Soro 2 (Oba Osumare), with the theme, “The Faithful God."

The event featured inspiring messages, spirited worship, thanksgiving and a renewed call for greater participation in church activities, particularly among young men and women.

Speaking at the occasion, the OSOPADEC Chairman, Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, congratulated the church on attaining the significant milestone, describing the 50th anniversary as a testament to God's faithfulness and the enduring impact of the church's ministry.

Prince Poroye particularly commended the General Overseer, Primate (Dr.) Ola Judah, for his diligence and dedication both to the work of God and his responsibilities as a member of the OSOPADEC Board.

“The entire leadership of Ondo State, especially the Ilaje nation, congratulates this church today. All of us that are present here today, let our hands be seen in the church. Men should be alive to spiritual responsibility,” Prince Poroye said.

The OSOPADEC helmsman encouraged the congregation to remain committed to the things of God, stressing that material and political positions should not be regarded as the ultimate measure of success.

“Let us be committed to the things of God. Position does not make anybody rich; only God does. Partner with God because there is nothing that you do with God that amounts to nothing,” he added.

Earlier, the General Overseer of Mount Shiloh Zion Assembly, Primate (Dr.) Ola Judah, acknowledged the presence of the OSOPADEC leadership and described the Commission's participation as a demonstration of its commitment to inclusiveness and active engagement in activities that affect the people of its mandate areas.

The celebration also provided an opportunity for members of the church, invited guests and the wider Ilaje community to reflect on the journey of the assembly over the past five decades and the importance of sustaining its spiritual legacy for future generations.

Among those who attended the anniversary were OSOPADEC Board members, including Hon. Bayo Anifowose, Hon. Steven Tibiebi Lawrence and Princess Ronke Benjamin Efurubu, alongside other top management staff of the Commission.

AIYEDATIWA HAS NEVER PLAYED ANTI-PARTY POLITICS; DON’T SABOTAGE THE GOVERNOR’S NAME - POROYE WARNS• AS OSOPADEC CHAIRMAN...
22/08/2026

AIYEDATIWA HAS NEVER PLAYED ANTI-PARTY POLITICS; DON’T SABOTAGE THE GOVERNOR’S NAME - POROYE WARNS

• AS OSOPADEC CHAIRMAN RALLIES ILAJE APC EXECUTIVES FOR UNITY AND PARTY RENEWAL

The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, has called for unity, reconciliation and renewed grassroots mobilisation within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.

Poroye made the call during a series of engagements with APC local government executives, councillors, ward chairmen, secretaries and other stakeholders at the OSOPADEC Area Office, GRA, Igbokoda.

The meetings focused on party unity, reconciliation, grassroots mobilisation, political representation and equitable access to government opportunities.

Poroye, who has been entrusted with a reconciliation responsibility within the party in the state, urged APC members to set aside personal differences and place the collective interest of the party above individual ambitions.

He said political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, maturity and strategic engagement rather than confrontation.

“Politics is not love affairs. Politics is in the brain,” he said, urging party members to approach political activities with strategy, ideology and careful planning.

The OSOPADEC chairman also charged party members to remain loyal to the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and refrain from actions capable of undermining the government.

He declared that the governor had never engaged in anti-party politics and warned politicians against using the governor’s name to pursue personal interests or engage in activities capable of damaging his reputation.

“Aiyedatiwa has never played anti-party politics. Don’t sabotage the Governor’s name,” Poroye warned.

Addressing APC councillors, the chairman urged elected representatives to remain connected to their constituents and ensure that government appointments, employment and empowerment opportunities were spread across their communities.

He said public office should be regarded primarily as an avenue to serve the people rather than a means of personal enrichment.

Poroye also called on party leaders to work collectively to ensure that Ondo State secures its fair share of federal appointments and other opportunities.

At the ward-level meeting, stakeholders particularly raised the issue of the formal recognition and inauguration of ward secretaries.

Responding, Poroye said discussions were ongoing with relevant party leaders, stressing that strong grassroots structures remained critical to effective political organisation, communication and mobilisation.

“Strong grassroots structures are essential to effective political organisation, communication and mobilisation,” he said.

On the flooding and erosion affecting some communities, Poroye disclosed that OSOPADEC had prepared a proposal for intervention by the state government.

He explained that temporary repairs would not provide a lasting solution, noting that sustainable intervention required proper technical assessment, surveying and mapping before major projects were undertaken.

The chairman further disclosed plans for collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and local government authorities to map affected areas and develop appropriate drainage and channelisation systems.

On OSOPADEC projects, Poroye said the Commission had adopted a deliberate policy of completing existing and abandoned projects before embarking on numerous new ones.

“We must complete what we have started and put existing projects to use rather than spread available resources across too many new projects,” he said.

He also disclosed that OSOPADEC was working with companies and organisations to create employment opportunities for youths, while additional proposals had been submitted to expand existing empowerment programmes.

Defending the Commission’s investments in education, property and other productive ventures, Poroye explained that the initiatives were part of a long-term strategy aimed at strengthening OSOPADEC’s financial sustainability.

“Organisations that fail to save and invest responsibly may face financial difficulties in the future,” he warned.

APC leaders in Ilaje commended Poroye for his reconciliation efforts and accessibility. The leader of the legislative council for Ilaje Local Government, Rt. Hon. Francis Omosule Ikuemehinlo; the APC Publicity Secretary, Agbeni Blessing; Chairman, Conference of APC Ward Chairmen, Hon. Adegbenro Ogbaro; as well as a representative of the APC councillors, Hon. Egbaletiwon Emmanuel, praised Poroye's leadership and commitment to grassroots development.

The ward secretaries, represented by Oloruntimilehin Suji, appealed for their speedy inauguration and formal recognition.

OSOPADEC CHAIRMAN CHARGES STAFF ON PROFESSIONALISM, NEW MINDSETThe Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Ar...
22/08/2026

OSOPADEC CHAIRMAN CHARGES STAFF ON PROFESSIONALISM, NEW MINDSET

The Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC), Prince Olabiyi Olaleye Poroye, has charged staff of the Commission to embrace a new mindset, professionalism, discipline and continuous learning to improve service delivery.

Poroye gave the charge on Friday during an engagement with staff at the OSOPADEC Area Office, where he spoke on staff welfare, career development, training, discipline, project monitoring and the need for workers to take ownership of the Commission’s mandate.

The Chairman said his administration would continue to prioritise the welfare of workers while repositioning the Commission for greater efficiency and impact.

Poroye said although he did not initially plan to become Chairman of OSOPADEC, he believed his leadership role was part of God’s preparation for him.

“Even though we didn’t plan to become OSOPADEC Chairman, God had prepared us for any leadership role. So, challenges cannot be our problem,” he said.

He urged staff to discard outdated attitudes and develop a mindset that would enable them to remain relevant in a changing work environment.

“If you still carry the mindset of yesteryears, you will be left behind,” he warned.

He emphasised the importance of staff welfare, saying employees who were properly cared for would be better positioned to deliver quality service.

Poroye urged workers to project a positive image of the Commission through their appearance, conduct and professionalism, while encouraging them to carry themselves with confidence and dignity.

He further stressed the importance of continuous training, describing ignorance as one of the greatest obstacles to human development.

The Chairman urged staff to take training programmes seriously and return with knowledge and skills that could improve their performance, rather than attending such programmes merely for allowances or social engagements.

“Training is to enable you to be better than whom you are,” he said.

He also warned against laziness and excuses, urging every employee to make a positive impact at their duty post.

According to him, an employee’s present place of assignment could provide an opportunity for greater responsibility in the future.

Poroye also charged all staff to take ownership of projects being executed by the Commission across Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas.

He said project monitoring should not be regarded as the exclusive responsibility of the Project Department, urging every staff member to pay attention to OSOPADEC projects within their communities and ensure that the right things were being done.

The Chairman said the Commission would continue to expand its presence through additional area offices and annexes to strengthen project monitoring and ensure that residents of the mandate areas benefited from government interventions.

Poroye also urged staff to maintain loyalty to the administration of the Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, and avoid actions that could be construed as anti-government activities.

The Chairman reaffirmed his determination to build an OSOPADEC that would serve as a reference point for effective leadership, staff welfare and sustainable development.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of OSOPADEC, Mr Festus Omomowo, described the Commission’s workforce as the “cream de la cream” of OSOPADEC, stressing that the Commission could not effectively fulfil its mandate without the dedication and commitment of its staff.

Omomowo said the meeting was organised at the instance of the Executive Chairman, whom he described as a leader who places a high premium on staff welfare and professional development.

He commended the workers for their selfless service and commitment to their responsibilities, while urging them to continue improving their performance.

ODUN EBIWONJUMI COMMUNITY PROTESTS ALLEGED ITSEKIRI INVASION, SEEKS GOVERNMENT INTERVENTIONThe people of Odun Ebiwonjumi...
21/08/2026

ODUN EBIWONJUMI COMMUNITY PROTESTS ALLEGED ITSEKIRI INVASION, SEEKS GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

The people of Odun Ebiwonjumi Community in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State have raised the alarm over an alleged invasion of their community by some Itsekiri people, accusing them of coming into the area with arms and ammunition and laying claim to the community.

The people made their position known during a peaceful protest in the community on Thursday, where they carried placards with various inscriptions calling for government intervention and the protection of their ancestral land.

The development, according to the protesters, followed moves to construct a concrete jetty in the community by the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC).

Speaking on behalf of the community, Busayo Ebiniyi one of the sons of the soil said the people of Odun Ebiwonjumi and the Itsekiri had maintained longstanding relationships through friendship, trade and intermarriage, noting that there had been peaceful coexistence between the two nationalities for generations.

“The Itsekiri nationalities have been friends and fraternised with us for decades, permit me to say for generations, as the case may be,” Ebiniyi said.

He insisted that Odun Ebiwonjumi was located in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State and that its citizens owed their allegiance to the Ondo State Government.

According to him, the community is an ancestral settlement handed down by their forefathers, stressing that the people would not surrender their heritage.

He said the dispute was not limited to Odun Ebiwonjumi but extended to a number of other Ilaje coastal communities in the area.

He listed the affected communities as Odun Makin, Ilu Titun, Odun Odunjo, Odun Maha, Eke Nla, Eke Kekere, Ubajakere, Eke Itiola, Odun Okoro, Odun Yonren, Odun Beku, Odun Ogungbeje, Odun Oyinbo, Odun Oriretan, Ubale Kekere, Ubale Nla, Ikuyinminu and Odun Igo.

Ebiniyi described the communities as distinct and independent Ilaje communities which had historically operated as separate oil-producing communities.

He appealed to the Ondo and Delta State governments, as well as traditional rulers and other stakeholders, to urgently intervene and prevent the disagreement from escalating into violence.

“We want to plead with the governments of Ondo and Delta states to go all out for government-to-government agreements and assemble elders of both Ilaje and Itsekiri communities so that we will be able to dialogue on the essence of peace rather than war,” he said.

He added that peace remained the preferred option but warned that the community would not accept intimidation or suppression.

Ebiniyi further explained that the name Ebiwonjumi was not a mere label but an ancestral identity handed down by their forefathers.

He appealed to the Federal Government, the Ondo and Delta State governments and royal fathers to intervene, stressing that the community had historically identified with Ugbo Kingdom in Ilaje Local Government Area.

He also cited various projects executed in the community by successive Ondo State administrations as evidence of the community's longstanding relationship with Ondo State.

Another community leader, Hon. Olumide Ebiwonjumi, said the name Ebiwon was derived from Ebiwonjumi, the ancestral name of their forefathers.

He maintained that Odun Ebiwonjumi was in Ondo State and under Ilaje Local Government Area and Ugbo Kingdom, rather than Delta State.

Ebiwonjumi further stated that the communities were previously represented within the Ultimate Oil Producing Community Association and the Ilaje Eight United Oil Producing Communities Association, prior to the advent and implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

He said he was born and raised in the community and pointed to the presence of government projects and political structures administered by Ondo State as further evidence of its affiliation with the state.

The Baale of Odun Ebiwonjumi Community, Chief Orimisan Ebiwonjumi, son of the late Baale, Chief Ephenus Menukanren Ebiwonjumi, also affirmed the community's position.

He said projects executed in the community had been carried out by the Ondo State Government and called on the state authorities not to abandon the people.

Chief Ebiwonjumi alleged that residents of six Itsekiri communities recently entered Odun Ebiwonjumi with arms and ammunition while laying claim to the community.

He appealed to the Ondo State Government to provide basic amenities, including potable water, healthcare facilities, housing, solar power and a signpost identifying the community as part of Ondo State.

The community leaders further alleged that the renewed dispute was connected to the presence of crude oil resources in the area.

While reiterating their commitment to peace, Chief Ebiwonjumi said the community would resist any attempt to dispossess it of its ancestral land.

He urged the government and traditional institutions to act swiftly, warning that failure to address the dispute could create tension and lead to avoidable conflict in the coastal communities.

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