A prominent Urhobo leader and indigene of Iwhrekan community of Ughievwen Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, Olorogun Zik Gbemre, has faulted what he described as a breach of traditional boundaries at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Utorogu Southfield Petroleum Limited Gas Project.
In a statement on Saturday, Gbemre said the April 14 event, though significant for development, triggered concerns over the presence of representatives linked to the Itsekiri traditional institution at the project site.
He warned that such a move could spark tension if not urgently addressed.
“Iwhrekan is part of Ughievwen Kingdom in Urhobo land, and our only recognised traditional authority is the Okobaro,” he said, insisting that the inclusion of another traditional institution at the ceremony was unacceptable.
Gbemre described the development as an “overreach,” stressing that respect for established traditional boundaries remained critical to sustaining peace in the the state.
He also alleged a pattern in which companies associated with the Itsekiri axis had secured contracts within Utorogu, including pipeline projects, warning against what he termed creeping influence.
While acknowledging that business interests may cut across communities, he maintained that economic involvement must not be mistaken for territorial claim.
Gbemre called on operators of the project and OML 34 to respect host community structures, warning that actions perceived as undermining local authority could erode trust.
He urged the Delta State Government, led by Sheriff Oborevwori, to intervene and prevent any escalation.
“The community supports the project, but our identity and territorial integrity are non-negotiable,” he added.
