By Jimitota Onoyume 

The Chairman of Odidi federated community, Warri South-West local government area, Delta state, Prince Preye Okrikpa, has cautioned against reckless statements from any group on a recent oil spill in the area, saying his executive is the only recognised body to speak on behalf of the community on the issue.

“Any publication, correspondence, directive, demand or representation originating from individuals outside the authority of the recognised executive should be regarded as unauthorised, misleading, self-serving and of no legal or binding effect whatsoever on Odidi Community “, he said. 

The statement, also signed by the Secretary of the community, Mr Clement Numah,  appealed against the attempt by some persons to politicise the spill for personal gains.

” We warn against politicising or exploiting the reported oil spill incident to allegedly blackmail or mount undue pressure on the oil firm and other stakeholders involved in the response and investigative process.

“While acknowledging the constitutional rights of individuals to raise concerns over environmental incidents, such actions must be undertaken strictly in personal capacities.

“The community reaffirms its commitment to maintaining cordial relations with the firm and other stakeholders operating in the area.

” We express confidence in the integrity of the ongoing Joint Investigation Visit, JIV, process, and we appeal for continued transparency in the conduct of the investigation in the interest of environmental accountability and timely resolution of issues arising from the reported spill.

” We further call for all environmental remediation, cleanup exercises, relief interventions and compensation due to the host community to be carried out transparently and in accordance with extant laws, regulatory procedures and industry standards.

” The Odidi Community executive remains focused on protecting the collective interests of the people”, he said.