By Ayodele Oni
Arogbo Ijaw in Ondo State has demanded equal representation in the state oil intervention commission, Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC).
In an open letter to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Arogbo-Ibe Intellectual Corner, an Ijaw group, noted that Arogbo- Ijaw people have long been excluded from the Board of the Commission.
“The two Local Governments, Ilaje and Ese-Odo have given the entire State an oil producing status. A status that has generated the special 13 percent derivation fund from the Federal Government.
“A status that has equally hatched the Ondo State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (OSOPADEC).
“We wish to draw your attention to the eternal woes of the Arogbo Ijaws when matters of development from the oil region are in discourse.
“The inception of the Commission has consistently seen an Ilaje born at the helms of affairs. In fact, it was seen a miracle that an Ese-Odo man was appointed, for the first time, secretary of the commission during the Akeredolu-led administration, wherein you served as Deputy Governor.
“As a body, we have undergone the letters of the OSOPADEC Law 2001, and are left wondering why the Arogbo Ijaws are left with part time commissioners.
“This comes at variance with the principles of justice and Federal character enshrined in the 1999 constitution.
“Thus, we speak into your conscience to make right, the wrongs that have subsisted for long and appoint a qualified Arogbo Ijaw man for the office.
“By doing the above, you have printed your name in the annals of history as a true crusader of justice. It is only fair, and right that the Ijaws are given the recognition they deserve in the state.”
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