BARR FELIX OSEMWENGIE ISERE,SPECIAL ADVISER TO THE EDO STATE GOVERNOR ON OIL AND GAS,ADDRESSING THE TRENDING VIDEO OF ALLEGATIONS OF MARGINALIZATION IN OIL EXPLORATION IN URHONIGBE COMMUNITY

 15th February,2025

PRESS STATEMENT BY FELIX OSEMWENGIE ISERE, ESQ SPECIAL ADVISER TO THE EDO STATE GOVERNOR ON OIL AND GAS, ON THE TRENDING VIDEO OF ALLEGATIONS OF MARGINALIZATION IN OIL EXPLORATION IN URHONIGBE COMMUNITY

My attention has been drawn to a trending video by Mr. Osamudiamen Vincent, alleging that the Urhonigbe Community has been marginalized in ongoing oil exploration activities within its locality. According to the claims, while the Umutu Community in Delta State is receiving royalties and recognition, Urhonigbe, despite hosting the access road leading to the exploration site, has been completely disregarded.

I acknowledge the concerns raised by Mr. Osamudiamen Vincent and the numerous calls I have received on this matter. In response, I have advised the leadership of Urhonigbe Community to formally submit a letter of complaint to His Excellency, the Governor of Edo State. This will enable the state government to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that any legitimate grievances are addressed appropriately.

I urge the people of Urhonigbe to remain peaceful and law-abiding while trusting in the commitment of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to uphold fairness and justice for all communities in Edo State.

The government of Senator Monday Okpebholo remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting the rights of all host communities and ensuring that the benefits derived from natural resources are equitably distributed. We will continue to engage all relevant stakeholders to ensure that due process is followed in all oil and gas operations within the state.

Signed,

*Felix Osemwengie Isere,Esq*

Special Adviser to the Governor on Oil and Gas

Edo State