The Edo State government has urged President Bola Tinubu to suspend all crude oil drilling operations in the contested oil wells situated between Edo and Delta states until the ownership issue is officially settled.

During a meeting with the National Boundary Commission's delegation, led by Director General Adamu Adaji, Edo State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, made this significant request over the weekend.

Idahosa also called for the freezing of accounts belonging to oil companies operating in the area, which are currently registered in Delta State. He contended that this would stop them from paying royalties to the neighboring state.

A statement from Mr. Friday Aghedo, the Chief Press Secretary to Idahosa, indicated that these proposed actions are vital for maintaining fairness and justice regarding the disputed oil rigs.

The Deputy Governor took the chance to address the President directly, saying, “I want to take this opportunity to urge the President to put a stop to or direct the regulatory agencies to halt all benefits going to Delta State until this matter is resolved.”

Idahosa expressed his dissatisfaction with Delta State and the NBC’s handling of the situation, stating, “It is evident that Delta State is stalling this process, as is the National Boundary Commission.” He firmly claimed, “They clearly do not wish for this issue to be settled, fully aware that these resources rightfully belong to Edo State.”

He also called on the NBC to thoroughly review all documentation related to the disputed oil wells submitted to them to determine the rightful ownership of the resources.

Despite the provocations perceived from the adjacent state, Idahosa emphasized that the Orogho and Urhonigbe Communities where these rigs are located have maintained a peaceful and lawful stance, pointing out, “Many communities are affected – particularly Orogho and Urhonigbe.”

Expressing impatience with the ongoing delay, the Deputy Governor reminded the commission, “We informed the NBC Director General that we will no longer wait, as the necessary documents have been submitted to them since July. We are also aware that Delta State has not yet submitted theirs to the commission.” He lamented the adverse effect of the delay on his constituents, highlighting, “Our people are suffering from the benefits they should be receiving.”

Idahosa criticized the NBC for its inaction, stating, “God has provided them with these opportunities to develop their community and state, yet the NBC is allowing these chances to benefit Delta State instead.” He concluded his appeal with an urgent request for resolution, emphasizing, “This matter needs to be resolved by a specific timeline. That is my request.”

The Deputy Governor pointed out the urgent necessity for resolving the issue to reduce growing tensions between the two states, warning that failure to do so could result in possible hostilities.

He elaborated on the potential for local conflict, stating, “There is significant tension and pressure in the affected communities, and if the state government does not provide them with something substantial, it could lead to internal or communal crises.” Idahosa made his priorities clear, saying, “We want to avoid that; hence, we seek a swift resolution to this issue.”

NBC Director General Adamu Adaji reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to promptly resolving the boundary conflict, remarking that this need was the primary reason for their visit.