By Ochuko Akuopha

Indigenes of Umuseti community in Utagba-Ogbe, Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area, Delta State, have reaffirmed ownership of land purchased by Axxela, an oil and gas company.

They averred that Axxela Company conducted thorough due diligence before purchasing the land, reiterating the community’s support for the Company’s investment.

Recall that protesters from Emu Ebendo community had Tuesday, told Axxela to negotiate with them as rightful owners of the land.

But reacting to the protest during a press conference, Spokesperson of the Umuseti Community, Chief Emmanuel Akpe, noted that the land in question, which he said is located in the Oluji area, had been under the ownership and possession of the Umu-Mgbor family of Umuseti for generations, with a long history of agricultural and economic activities.

Akpe emphasised that “The Umu-Mgbor family, as customary landowners, have utilised this land for farming and other economic purposes for so many years.

“Historical records show that the area has been inhabited and developed by members of the Umuseti community for over a century, with houses, and other economic activities established long before Axxela arrived in 2024.”

According to him, Axxela Company conducted thorough due diligence before the purchase, consulting relevant families, local authorities, government agencies, and other stakeholders.

He said compensation for economic crops was adequately paid to members of the Umu-Mgbor family, with no claims or objections raised by any other party.

Akpe stated that the claims by the Emu Ebendo community appeared to be rooted in a Supreme Court judgment involving another community.

“It is important to put it on record that Umuseti community was not a party to the suit and therefore cannot be bound by its ruling,” he said.

He reiterated the community’s support for Axxela’s investment, saying, “Axxela’s operations will significantly curb gas flaring which has been a major menace in our community for years; it will create immense employment opportunities, and generate significant revenue for both state and federal governments”

He said Umuseti Community remained committed to providing further evidence of its ownership and ensuring justice prevails.