Delta State HOSTCOM Condemns Contractors Forum’s Attack on DESOPADEC Management Board / Governor Sheriff Oborevwori

 

By Wilson Macaulay

In a bold and unequivocal response, the Delta State Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil & Gas (HOSTCOM) has condemned the recent publication by the DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum, describing it as a calculated attempt to mislead the public and tarnish the reputation of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) and the good  name of the State Governor, His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

The publication, released on January 18, 2025, and signed by Engr. Ogie Samson Oritsebemigho, Chairman of the DESOPADEC Indigenous Contractors Forum, alongside its Secretary, Prince Charles Ebigbagha, alleged that there is a dispute between DESOPADEC and the Contractors Forum. However, HOSTCOM, under the leadership of Comrade Enujeke Ndidi Sunday (State Chairman) and High Comrade Joseph Lamienghan (State Secretary), in  their Press statement labeled these claims as baseless fabrications designed to stir unnecessary public attention and ridicule.

HOSTCOM’s Firm Stance

In its official statement, HOSTCOM, the umbrella body representing oil-producing communities in Delta State, expressed dismay at what it termed as a “mischievous and baseless fabrication” by the Indigenous Contractors Forum. The group pointed out that the forum, which has benefitted immensely from DESOPADEC’s initiatives, had stooped to desperate tactics to undermine the Commission's credibility.

“Engr. Ogie Samson Oritsebemigho, the so-called Chairman of the Indigenous Contractors Forum, has demonstrated treacherous tendencies and questionable character,” HOSTCOM stated. It further alleged that Oritsebemigho had demanded a personal payment of ₦5 million from the DESOPADEC Management Board to act as an intermediary between the commission and contractors. When this demand was rejected, he allegedly mobilized contractors for a baseless protest, which HOSTCOM described as “dead on arrival.”

DEFENDING DESOPADEC AND THE MORE AGENDA

HOSTCOM praised DESOPADEC’s leadership under Chief Festus Ochonogor (Managing Director) and Chief John Nani (Chairman), noting their steadfast commitment to addressing the developmental needs of oil-bearing communities in line with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s M.O.R.E Agenda

have received accolades from relevant stakeholders across board.

“DESOPADEC has performed exceptionally well, delivering critical infrastructure and development projects that directly benefit oil-producing communities,” HOSTCOM declared. “This aligns with the Governor’s vision of equity, transparency, and progress in Delta State.”

The group urged Governor Oborevwori and DESOPADEC to disregard the actions of the Contractors Forum, which it labeled as acts of sabotage aimed at derailing progress. HOSTCOM reiterated its confidence in DESOPADEC’s Management and vowed to continue supporting its initiatives and the MORE AGENDA of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for the betterment of all  Deltans.

Addressing False Allegations on 13% Derivation Funds

In a related development, HOSTCOM also criticized recent accusations by Comrade Austin Ozobo, National President of the Ijaw People's Development Initiative (IPDI), regarding the alleged mismanagement of 13% derivation funds by the Delta State Government.

Describing the claims as hypocritical, HOSTCOM reminded the public that Comrade Austin Ozobo had previously served as a Special Assistant in the administration of Senator Dr. Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa and benefitted from the same funds he is now questioning.

HOSTCOM affirmed that  Governor Sheriff Oborevwori's  administration has demonstrated fiscal discipline and prudence in managing the derivation funds. The group called on security agencies to intervene and prevent any protests or actions that could disrupt the peace and stability currently enjoyed in the state under any guise.

Commending DESOPADEC’s Achievements

HOSTCOM lauded the numerous developmental strides achieved by DESOPADEC under Governor Oborevwori’s administration. The commission’s contributions to infrastructure, healthcare, education, and community development have earned it widespread recognition and support.

“The peace and stability across Delta State are a direct result of the impactful and people-oriented initiatives implemented under the M.O.R.E Agenda,” HOSTCOM stated. It further emphasized that DESOPADEC’s success is a testament to the dedication of its leadership team, with Chief Festus Ochonogor as the capable MD/ CEO.

Delta State HOSTCOM in summation reaffirmed its unwavering support for DESOPADEC and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration. It called on all stakeholders to prioritize unity and progress while condemning any attempts to undermine the commission or disrupt the peace of the state on the altar of personal interest.