By OLAYINKA LATONA

The Ubie land-owning families of the Ubeta Main Development Project in Ubeta and Ubarama communities, Ahoada West Local Government Area, Rivers State, have denied claims that they sold an existing gas treatment plant.

Speaking on the matter, Chief Saint Obidinma Friday clarified that the Ubeta Main Development Project never included a gas treatment plant as part of its scope. He explained that the Obite Gas Treatment Plant, located approximately 12 kilometers from the Ubeta project site, was constructed before the project began.

According to Chief Obidinma, “We wish to categorically state that TotalEnergies EP Nigeria Limited has never proposed or promised to build a gas treatment plant as part of the Ubeta Main Development Project. The project’s scope and intentions were made public at inception and remain accessible for verification.”

The Ubeta Main Field Development Project has created employment opportunities for over 100 Ekpeye youths, significantly reducing criminal activities in the area and improving local livelihoods.

Elder Ogide R. December, Chairman of the Ubarama Community Right of Way Pipeline, urged residents to refrain from spreading falsehoods. He appealed for unity and cooperation to maximize the developmental and economic benefits of the project. He further noted that those spreading misinformation about the alleged sale of the land were motivated by political and selfish interests, rather than the well-being of the communities.