The Edo State Government has launched an initiative to rectify the alleged transfer of oil wells from the Orogho community in Orhionmwon Local Government Area to neighboring Delta State. This move comes after long-standing concerns over the ceding of these oil wells, which have been operated by Seplat Energy PLC.
Led by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, a delegation visited the Orogho community to engage with local leaders and residents. Idahosa commended the community for their peaceful approach to the issue and assured them that the government would explore all avenues to ensure the benefits from these assets are restored to Edo State. This includes collaborating with relevant federal agencies to rectify the situation and boost socio-economic development in the region.
Historically, royalties from these oil wells were paid to the Edo State Government when Shell Petroleum Development Company operated them. However, the situation changed after Seplat Energy took over, leading to claims that the wells were being managed as part of Delta State’s assets.
EdoGIS, the state’s geographic information service, has verified that the disputed oil wells indeed belong to Edo State using digital mapping and geospatial data. This confirmation has bolstered the state’s claim and will inform further negotiations with federal authorities.
The Orogho community has expressed gratitude for the government’s intervention, emphasizing the need for urgent action to address the economic challenges faced by local youths, many of whom remain unemployed despite living in an oil-producing area.
This development highlights ongoing tensions and disputes over oil resources in the Niger Delta region, where issues of land ownership and revenue allocation frequently arise between states and communities. As Edo State pursues a resolution, it underscores the broader challenges of managing natural resources in Nigeria’s oil-rich regions.
