OSOPADEC reaffirms Ondo ownership of Eba Island
Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has said Eba Island remains an integral part of Ondo State, notwithstanding ongoing boundary discussions with Ogun State. It said the island
Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) has said Eba Island remains an integral part of Ondo State, notwithstanding ongoing boundary discussions with Ogun State.
It said the island formed part of Atijere Kingdom, Mahin Ward 4 in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
OSOPADEC Chairman Prince Olabiyi Poroye said the island had been continuously inhabited by Ilaje people and administered under the recognised traditional institutions of Amapetu of Mahinland and Molokun of Atijere, within the constitutional framework of Ondo State.
He said Ondo State’s ownership and jurisdiction over Eba Island were clear, established and non-negotiable pending any constitutionally-recognised resolution of boundary matters.
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Poroye called for immediate recourse to constitutionally-recognised boundary resolution mechanisms as well as an independent and objective verification of territorial boundaries through historical, legal and empirical evidence.
The OSOPADEC boss, who called for observance of due process by stakeholders, appealed for respect for established traditional leadership and host community’s rights as provided under the Petroleum Industry Act.
He said: “Let there be continued dialogue to prevent tension and safeguard communal harmony.
“The commission reiterates its immutable commitment to peace, lawful engagement and constructive partnership with the Federal Government, relevant agencies and legitimate investors. OSOPADEC remains resolute in protecting the rights and interests of host communities within Ondo State, while encouraging parties to act with prudence, respect for history and adherence to constitutional order.”
