The Edo State Government has formally requested President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing dispute over crude oil drilling in contested oil wells between Edo and Delta states. Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa made this appeal during a meeting with the Director General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Adamu Adaji, in Benin. He urged for an immediate suspension of drilling activities in the disputed areas until the boundary issue is definitively resolved.
Idahosa called for the freezing of accounts belonging to oil companies based in Delta State that are operating in the contested regions, arguing that this would ensure fairness while investigations are ongoing. He accused Delta State of manipulating the situation and asserted that the oil assets rightfully belong to Edo State. He highlighted that Edo State had submitted its documentation regarding the boundary issue back in July, while Delta State had not yet done so.
The Deputy Governor expressed concern for the communities affected by the dispute, particularly Orogho and Urhonigbe, and warned that the prolonged uncertainty could lead to internal or communal conflicts. He emphasized the urgent need for resolution to prevent further suffering among residents who are deprived of resources meant to benefit them.
In response, NBC Director General Adamu Adaji assured that the commission is committed to resolving the matter swiftly. He mentioned that the visit was part of efforts to expedite the resolution process and indicated that the commission would engage with both states individually to clarify any ambiguities using the available delineation documents.
In a related development, Edo State Governor Monday Okpehbolo announced that his administration has created over 10,000 jobs—both direct and indirect—since he took office. During an event marking his first year in office, he also introduced a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme aimed at supporting small businesses and traders. Governor Okpehbolo emphasized his administration’s focus on restoring trust and implementing practical governance to improve the lives of residents. He noted the significant financial challenges inherited by his administration, including over ₦600 billion in debts, but highlighted that through effective management under the SHINE Agenda, the debt burden has been considerably reduced.
