4 Edo Communities To Reject Seplat Petroleum

Four oil and gas bearing communities in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State, have issued a 7-day ultimatum to Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc, to commence negotiations for the payment of compensations to them or or vacate their host communities.

 

The communities, namely, Oben, Iguelaba, Ikobi and Obazogbe-nugu, also demanded that the oil exploration company commence immediately, a joint assessment and evaluation that would be credible to both the company and the people.

Speaking on behalf of the communities at a community town hall, Mr. West Uyigue Ogiemwonyi, said Oben is reported to have had the largest gas reserve in West Africa with Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc as the operator of the field but regrettably, its host communities are highly neglected by both the exploration company, State and Federal Governments.


The Onogie of Oben Community, HRH Odoligie Ogiemwonyi, had earlier said he was in support of the decision reached by his subjects, adding that governments at both levels should come to their rescue to bring about development to the various host communities in Orhionmwon.