Indigenes and stakeholders of Orogho Dukedom in Edo South of Edo State have expressed concerns over the alleged activities of some oil companies and a traditional ruler. They claim that the oil companies, in collaboration with some leaders, are cornering resources meant to develop the community. The representatives of the seven communities that make up the dukedom stated that their area has remained largely underdeveloped despite millions of naira channeled through a particular monarch.
The convener, Osahon Imaru, alleged that the Enogie, Prince Patrick Osayande Akenzua, has been misappropriating funds meant for the seven communities in the Dukedom. The communities include Orogho, Uwuo, Obagie Nunuamen, Iwevbo, Ugbigun, Obanakhoro, and Ekhigbe. According to Imaru, since the Enogie's ascension, several concerns have been raised by stakeholders across the seven communities regarding the administration of the dukedom.
One of the most worrisome concerns, according to the group, is the introduction of Enogie representatives or Sub-Enogie in each of the seven communities. They alleged that these representatives have taken advantage of their positions to oppress the people the Enogie is expected to protect. The group also raised concerns about the alleged misappropriation of N38.5 million disbursed among ancestral land owners and the dukedom communities that NEW CROSS Petroleum's pipeline traverses.
The group further expressed worry over the alleged disposal of a large parcel of land in the Savannah area of Ere-Egwa Farm without the knowledge or consent of community leaders or the wider communities within the Dukedom. The land was subsequently recovered after well-meaning indigenes of Orogho and Owuo communities intervened and stopped Ere-Egwa Farm from securing a Certificate of Occupancy from the Edo State Ministry of Lands and Survey.
The group reiterated that the issues raised are not mere allegations, as they have relevant documents in their possession, available for verification by the appropriate authorities. Having exhausted several avenues to resolve the issue internally, they decided to seek the intervention of the Palace of the Oba of Benin as the highest traditional authority relevant to the matter.
The group submitted a letter to the Palace through the Secretary to the Benin Traditional Council. They also sought the intervention of the Edo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Orhionmwon Local Government Council, having discovered that the Enogie resorted to an oppressive and autocratic style of administration through the Enogie Representatives or Sub-Enogie.
The proposed election in the community, which was put on hold, demonstrates the importance of allowing the appropriate authorities to address the concerns raised by the indigenes and stakeholders. The group is seeking accountability and transparency in the administration of the dukedom and the use of funds from oil companies.
Key points
- The indigenes and stakeholders of Orogho Dukedom are seeking accountability for the alleged misappropriation of funds by the Enogie and oil companies.
- The group has relevant documents to support their claims and is seeking verification from the appropriate authorities.
- The Palace of the Oba of Benin and the Edo State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs have been petitioned to intervene in the matter.
