By Senator Ede Dafinone,
My attention has been drawn to the controversy and misinformation surrounding the proposed Industrial Gas Park in the Salubi-Orogun, Ughelli North, Delta State. For the avoidance of doubt, let me state clearly that I have never supported, and will never support, any attempt to deprive the Urhobo Nation of the economic benefits associated with this strategic investment.
As Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, I came across the project more directly in the course of legislative oversight and engagements with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB). Those engagements brought to light some observable challenges surrounding the project, including issues of land acquisition, ownership disputes and concerns relating to the proposed location.
These challenges are real. Pretending otherwise or twisting efforts to address them does not advance the interest of Urhobo Nation.
As the Senator representing Delta Central, my duty is to engage relevant authorities and ensure that the interests of the Urhobo Nation are protected; that is what I have done and continue to do.
My position is therefore straightforward: any decision concerning the future location of the project must not result in its removal from Urhobo land. Where legitimate technical, environmental or land-related concerns require adjustments, such decisions must be taken through proper consultation and with full consideration for the economic interests of the Urhobo people.
I will continue to engage the NCDMB, relevant federal authorities, community leaders and other stakeholders towards a responsible resolution of the outstanding issues.
The Industrial Gas Park represents a significant opportunity for investment, employment and industrial development. This is not a matter that should be reduced to political propaganda or a contest over who receives credit. The overriding concern must be to protect the collective economic interest of Urhobo Nation.
Any attempt to portray my engagement on this matter as contrary to the interest of the Urhobo people is false and without basis. My record and my responsibility are clear: to defend the interests of Delta Central and pursue opportunities that advance the future of our people.
Senator Ede Dafinone,
Delta Central Senatorial District.
