Prominent Itsekiri leaders have strongly condemned what they describe as a “campaign of misinformation and character assassination” by the Sapele Okpe Community regarding the ownership of lands hosting Seplat Energy’s operations in Delta State.
At the heart of the controversy are the communities of Abigborodo, Obotie, and Ugbekoko, which assert that they are the rightful host communities of Seplat Energy, accusing Sapele Okpe and Ugbukurusu of making false claims to the land.
In a strongly worded statement issued by Hon. Misan Ukubeyinje, ESQ, and Mr. Victor Atseponu, the leaders accused Seplat of colluding with the Sapele Okpe Community to undermine legitimate Itsekiri claims. They alleged that Seplat deliberately avoided an investigation visit to cover up its alliance with Sapele Okpe.
“Seplat Energy, in collaboration with the Sapele Okpe Community, attempted to manipulate the situation by spreading false intelligence reports about potential violence, hoping to derail the investigation. When that failed, they avoided the joint visit entirely,” the statement read.
Governor Oborevwori Urged to Ignore “Baseless” Sapele Okpe Claims
The Itsekiri leaders have urged Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to disregard what they call the “false cries” of the Sapele Okpe Community, reaffirming his role as a father to all Deltans.
They also condemned the calls for the removal of Chief Edwin Uzor, the Special Adviser on Peace Building and Conflict Resolution, calling it a ploy to intimidate the investigation panel.
“We are prepared for any further inspections, as our land, waters, and proximity to Seplat operations remain unchanged. The facts will remain the same, rain or shine,” they added.
Seplat Accused of Undermining Host Communities
The leadership of Ugbekoko Community also condemned Seplat’s alleged bias, insisting that the company’s flow stations, jetty, wellheads, and pipelines are located on Ugbekoko land.
“Seplat has sided with Sapele Okpe and Ugbukurusu to deny our rightful benefits. Their attempt to rewrite history will be resisted within the confines of the law,” said Henry Mabamue, Chairman of Ugbekoko Community Management Committee.
The Obotie Community also rejected the claims of the Sapele Okpe and Ugbukurusu communities, citing a 1925 Supreme Court ruling that affirmed Obotie’s ownership of the land.
“Sapele Okpe’s claims are nothing but historical distortions and cheap blackmail. They seek to disrupt a peaceful resolution process for their own gain,” their statement read.
Communities Vow to Resist “Illegal Incursion”
The Itsekiri leaders declared their intention to resist any attempt to usurp their land rights by Seplat or the Sapele Okpe Community, vowing to protect their communities legally.
They also accused Chief Onoriode Temiagin and Azan Friday of peddling lies, inciting tensions, and making baseless accusations against respected figures, including the Alema of Warri, High Chief Emmanuel Oritsejolomi Uduaghan.
“Seplat must stop its divide-and-rule tactics. The government must ensure justice prevails,” the statement concluded.
The dispute over host community rights continues to escalate, as all parties await the outcome of the state-led investigation into Seplat’s land operations in Delta State.
