The Delta State Government, in collaboration with the Olero Creek communities—comprising Udo, Ajamita, Tebu Gbokoda, Jakpa, Ebrahimi, and Obaghoro in Warri North Local Government Area—has reached an agreement to address the provision of potable water, aligning with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE Agenda.
The Commissioner for Water Resources Development, Isaac Wilkie, finalized the agreement during a meeting with community leaders and stakeholders at his office. Wilkie assured the communities that the government had already approved the project and mobilized contractors to commence work.
The meeting followed a letter addressed to the governor, signed by stakeholders from the affected communities. In the letter, the stakeholders appealed for urgent intervention to address the water and power issues while warning of potential unrest if their needs were not met.
Hon. Aduge Okorodudu, who was present at the meeting, recounted past efforts to resolve the issues. He highlighted an instance when the communities shut down Chevron’s operations before the intervention of former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, who had promised to provide potable water. A contract was awarded, and pipelines were laid to Chevron’s flow stations. However, Chevron reportedly halted the contractors at the hook-up stage, claiming no commitment had been made.
In response, Commissioner Wilkie urged the communities to maintain peace, assuring them of the government’s commitment to resolving the water challenges. “As someone who grew up along these creeks, I understand the frustration of being surrounded by water but lacking potable water. There is no need for protests or unrest—we are making necessary arrangements to solve this issue permanently,” he stated.
Wilkie further revealed that improvement projects for Obaghoro, Ebrohimi, Tebu Gbokoda, and Udo have already been awarded, with contractors set to begin work soon. He added that Dibi, Tisun, and Kolokolo communities are also slated for improvements. He urged the communities to take ownership of the facilities, emphasizing that these projects are for their benefit.
On the issue of power supply, Wilkie pledged to discuss their request with the Commissioner for Power and Energy and assured them that efforts would be made to include the energy commissioner in the next meeting.
Hon. Rolland Ukuesan expressed gratitude to the commissioner and Governor Oborevwori for prioritizing the Olero Creek communities. He suggested organizing a town hall meeting to rebuild trust among the youth, who feel disillusioned and believe their leaders only visit the state capital for personal gain.
