By John Umeh
The Edo State Government has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately halt crude oil drilling activities in the disputed oil wells located between Edo and Delta states until the lingering boundary conflict is fully resolved.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa made the appeal in Benin City on Friday while hosting the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Adamu Adaji, and his delegation. Idahosa further requested that accounts belonging to Delta-based oil firms operating in the contested area be frozen to ensure fairness during the investigation.
He insisted that regulatory agencies should stop all revenue and benefits accruing to Delta State from the disputed wells, alleging that Delta was deliberately stalling the process.
“It is clear these assets belong to Edo State,” Idahosa said, urging the NBC to critically review all submitted documents. According to him, Edo had provided its documentation since July, while Delta State had yet to comply.
The deputy governor expressed worry over the rising tension in affected communities such as Orogho and Urhonigbe. He warned that prolonged delays could trigger communal unrest.
“Our people are suffering from resources meant for their development. This issue must be resolved urgently to avoid internal crises,” he added.
Responding, NBC Director-General Adamu Adaji reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to settling the dispute quickly. He stated that the visit was aimed at fast-tracking the resolution process, noting that both states would be engaged separately where additional clarity is needed.
“We cannot allow delays,” Adaji said. “We will rely on existing delineation documents and established procedures before making recommendations to the Federal Government.”
Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo announced on Tuesday that his administration has created over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs within its first year in office. He also highlighted the launch of a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme for small businesses and traders.
Okpebholo emphasized that his government has focused on restoring trust, rebuilding institutional structures, and replacing “PowerPoint governance” with practical, people-centered leadership. He revealed that the administration inherited over ₦600 billion in local and foreign debts, as well as ₦180 billion owed to contractors, but noted that prudent management under the SHINE Agenda has already reduced the burden significantly.
