BY ELOHOR FOGHOLA
The Executive Director, Projects (EDP), in the Delta State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (DESOPADEC), Chief Dr Ebenezer Okorodudu has reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to tackling under-development in the oil-bearing communities.
Chief Okorodudu stated this yesterday day when he received a delegation of Owevwe Community Development Committee (CDC), Eriemu Field, Ughelli South Local Government Area, led by the President General of Owevwe Community, Mr Philip Akpovwokoko in the Commission’s Headquarters in Warri.
He noted that, “Owevwe deserves development as an oil-producing community with a flow station. Eriemu Field is regarded as one of the richest oil installations in all of Africa. It is regrettable that the funds are utilized to support the country’s 774 local governments”.
Responding to several requests by the CDC, Okorodudu promised to look into their request saying “One of the reasons of fighting for derivation which led to the creation of DESOPADEC is to cure the ills of underdevelopment of the oil-bearing communities”.
He solicited for their prayers so that the request could be fulfilled.
Earlier the Public Relation Officer of the committee, Mr Onome Esakpaide said the visit was to congratulate Chief Okorodudu on his appointment as the Project Director of DESOPADEC.
“Your appointment is a well-deserved one owing to the vast experience, expertise, and vision you have for the development of the oil-producing communities in Delta State”.
He pointed out that the Owvwe community consist of seven sister communities, which includes; Owevwe, Opherin, Gana, Otokutu, Saniko, Agbaide and Ughere. He revealed that these communities have oil well heads, flow stations, the biggest Manifold in West Africa and one of the highest oil producing community in the state.
Mr. Esakpadie noted that despite these oil facilities in their communities, it lacks basic amenities. He cited the 11-kilometer Owevwe to Otokutu bad road.
Chairman of Owevwe and leader of the committee, Mr Philip Akpovwokoko presented the formal request to the EDP on behalf of the seven communities which includes; Construction of Owevwe Secondary School Administrative Block, Renovation of 0wevwe Community Health Center, Rehabilitation of Opherin Community Primary School.
Also, Water Projects across the seven, Solar Powered Street Light, and medical equipment for Gana Community Health Centre.
He prayed for Gods blessing on Chief Okorodudu, as he carries out his assignment as the Executive Director of Project in DESOPADEC
