Itsekiri Leaders Reject DESOPADEC’s 2023 Budget, Demand Fair Share

The Itsekiri Leaders of Thought (ILoT) have issued an open letter to Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, protesting what they describe as a violation of equity and fairness in the 2023 DESOPADEC (Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission) budget. The leaders expressed their dissatisfaction with the allocation of funds for oil-producing communities, particularly the Itsekiri ethnic nationality, accusing DESOPADEC of undermining their rights.

In the letter, the ILoT stated that despite DESOPADEC being established by law to manage 50% of the 13% derivation revenue allocated to oil and gas-producing communities, the budget presented for 2023 appears to have breached the agreed-upon distribution formula. This formula, they argue, has historically been based on the quantum of oil production in each ethnic nationality’s homeland, with the Itsekiri receiving 29%, a figure they claim has been significantly reduced in the new budget.

The group further noted the discrepancies in the allocation of funds, pointing out that the Itsekiri ethnic nationality has been allocated just N315 million for centralized projects, despite being the largest oil-producing group in Delta State. The letter also stated that Osubi in Okpe Local Government Area, which is not an oil-producing community, received a staggering N3 billion. Additionally, the group raised concerns about the N200 million allocated for the renovation of Warri Club, a private elite institution, questioning its relevance to the development of oil-bearing communities and suggesting that the funds could be better used for student bursaries or healthcare centres.

The ILoT expressed frustration at their inability to secure a private audience with the Governor to address the issue, forcing them to make their grievances public. They appealed to Governor Oborevwori to review and correct the budget allocation, stressing that failure to do so would result in a continued sense of injustice among the Itsekiri people.

“As the largest oil-producing ethnic nationality, the Itsekiri cannot continue to be sidelined in the development of the region,” said Edward O. Ekpokpo, Chairman of the Itsekiri Leaders of Thought.

The group ended their letter by wishing the Governor a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year, hoping that the issues would be addressed promptly.