Udu LG Chairman Urges FG to Revive Delta Steel Company

The Chairman of Udu Local Government Area, Hon. Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode JP, FCIA, has called for the revival of the moribund Delta Steel Company, now known as Premium Steel and Mines Limited (PSML). Oyibode urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps toward restoring the company’s operations, which once served as a critical hub for Nigeria’s steel production.

Oyinbode made the statement following a formal visit by the Ovwian-Aladja Joint Consultative Forum to the local council. The group had come to present a petition titled “Save Our Soul: Urgent Intervention to Salvage the Deteriorated Situation of the Largest Steel Company in Africa,” drawing attention to several disturbing issues affecting workers and operations at PSML.

Speaking on behalf of the group, Hon. Godfrey Dolor alleged that indigenous workers at the company were being subjected to unfair treatment, including casual labour practices, underpayment, and non-compliance with federal local content policies. He also expressed concerns over security lapses and alleged instances of corporate misconduct.

Responding to these accusations, management of Premium Steel and Mines Limited pledged to review the matters raised and to engage with the Udu Council on their findings and planned course of action.

Chairman Oyibode, however, issued a stern warning that the plight of the host communities must not be ignored. He denounced the reported treatment of local workers as unjust and unacceptable, insisting that Udu natives should not be marginalized or oppressed within their own ancestral land.

Oyibode further urged PSML’s leadership to comply fully with federal policies on local content, emphasizing the need for transparent employment practices and inclusive development. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to defending the welfare of the Udu people and pressed for swift federal intervention to revive the once-vibrant steel facility.