DESOPADEC Pledges Inclusive Development After Owevwe Communities Present Demands

The Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive development in oil-producing communities following a visit from leaders of Owevwe and neighbouring communities in Ughelli North LGA.

On Monday, March 16, 2026, the Executive Director, Projects, Olorogun Dr. Ebenezer Okorodudu, received members of the Owevwe Community Development Committee at DESOPADEC’s Warri headquarters.

Representing seven communities, Owevwe, Saniko, Gana, Agbaide, Ughere, Otokutu and Opherin, the committee presented a demands letter seeking meaningful access to the 13% oil derivation fund.

Okorodudu emphasized DESOPADEC’s openness to dialogue and pledged to forward all issues raised to management and the board for action.

“The Commission is open to dialogue with every community to find amicable solution to every challenge. The Commission shall always pursue inclusiveness in the development agenda of the interventionist agency. I will channel all your demands to the Management and Board of DESOPADEC so that the communities can be carried along.”

Legal counsel to the communities, Hon. Roland Ufuoma Oyibo Esq, outlined key needs including employment opportunities, road and market construction, school infrastructure, electricity, water supply and solar street lighting.

“We need employment for the indigenes of our communities; construction of Owevwe Market; re-construction of Owevwe road; building of Corpers lodge at Owevwe Secondary School; solar street lights to Saniko community; drainage system to Gana community and other communities”

The communities praised DESOPADEC’s leadership and expressed optimism that continued engagement will drive development in the region. The visit ended with the formal handover of the demand letter by Community Development Chairman Mr. Ibebe O. Mathew.