OSOPADEC Controversy: Stakeholders Reject False ‘Dichotomy’ Narrative, Call for Accountability
By Arikawe Femi, The People’s Voice Nigeria News
The Concerned Stakeholders of the Ondo State Oil-Producing Communities have rejected recent claims of a “dichotomy” between Governor Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and OSOPADEC Chairman Mr. Biyi Poroye, describing the narrative as baseless and misleading.
According to stakeholders, the Governor’s appointment of Mr. Poroye from the Mahin axis of the Mahin/Aheri/Etikan Constituency—despite pressure to choose a candidate from Ilaje Local Government Area—demonstrates fairness, equity, and inclusiveness.
The real challenge, they say, lies in the Chairman’s alleged failure to execute approved development projects, including school renovations and naval security posts. Reports indicate that contractors have remained unmobilized despite mobilization funds being released, and there are claims of procedural irregularities, including attempts to sideline the statutory accounting officer, the Secretary of the Commission.
Specifically:
- Naval Security Post projects at Odun Oyinbo, Apata, Ebighan, and Atijere were approved with 30% mobilization, yet remain incomplete.
- School furniture projects across riverine communities, approved with 50% mobilization, are stalled.
- Stipends for aged and vulnerable persons were suspended for months and only partially restored last week, following protests by stakeholders.
Stakeholders emphasize that these issues are administrative, not political, and urge the public to focus on development, transparency, and accountability rather than unverified claims of a rift between the Governor and the Chairman.
“The oil-producing communities demand results, not propaganda,” the stakeholders said, commending Governor Aiyedatiwa for his fairness and restraint in appointments.
They called on OSOPADEC’s leadership to adhere to due process, mobilize contractors, and ensure proper delivery of projects to the communities that fund and sustain the Commission.
Signed: Concerned Stakeholders of the Ondo State Oil-Producing Communities
Spokesperson: Comrade Ayantuga Teledalase, Mahin, Ilaje LGA, Ondo State
