In a strongly worded open letter addressed to Isoko political leaders, Paul Emerhana has voiced grave concerns about what he describes as the “political emasculation” of the Isoko ethnic group in the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC). The letter, laden with frustration and patriotism, highlights perceived inequities in the allocation of projects and resources within the commission’s 2023 centralized budget.
Emerhana revealed that Isoko, despite being a key oil-producing ethnic group, was allocated only ₦230 million in projects for 2023—comprising the construction of a 1km road in Ozoro and the landscaping of the Oghara Iyede Town Hall in the First Lady’s community. Alarmingly, he noted, Isoko South received nothing. This figure, representing just 4% of the centralized capital projects, pales in comparison to allocations received by other ethnic groups:
– Ijaw: ₦415 million (8%)
– Itsekiri: ₦315 million (6%)
– Ndokwa: ₦500 million (9%)
– Ika: ₦200 million (4%), despite contributing no oil resources.
– Urhobo: ₦3.84 billion (70%), with Osubi alone—Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s community—receiving ₦3 billion.
Emerhana described the lopsided allocation as “institutional robbery” and accused the Governor of flagrantly violating the principles of equity and the mandate of DESOPADEC. He argued that the funds, derived from 50% of the 13% oil derivation allocation meant for oil-producing communities, should be distributed according to production quantum.
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“This is an open invitation to anarchy and chaos,” Emerhana warned, questioning the roles of Isoko representatives on the DESOPADEC Board.
Emerhana urged Isoko political, traditional, and socio-political leaders to confront Governor Oborevwori and demand fairness in the distribution of resources.
“We cannot continue to congratulate people on their appointments and elections while our community suffers. This is a betrayal of trust and a direct violation of the Governor’s oath of office,” he stated.
He further challenged Isoko leaders to show courage, calling for unity in advocating for their rights. “Let the Governor know we are not happy. We cannot sit back and watch our ‘ukodo’ [Isoko native soup] being served to other ethnic nationalities.”
The letter has sparked widespread debate within various social media groups, with many residents, particularly from Isoko, expressing outrage over the alleged marginalization. Others have called for transparency in DESOPADEC’s budgeting process and equitable resource allocation across all ethnic groups.
