By Emma Amaize

WARRI—ITSEKIRI oil producing communities in Delta State, yesterday, warned that they will shut down oil wells and flow stations in Itsekiri territory if shortchanged of their due percentage from the 13 per cent derivation fund.

Reacting to the objection by  leaders of some oil communities  in the state to the new bill by Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan to restructure Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, they said the bill was in the interest of oil communities.

In a statement by Mr Benjamin Iwetan and 27 others, they said: “We, the Itsekiri oil and gas producing communities are of the position that Itsekiri’s due percentage of the 13 per cent derivation fund be given to us as we have more oil wells and flow stations than any other ethnic groups in Delta State.

“We maintain that the proposed bill of the Delta State Government is in line with the struggle for the 13 per cent derivation, which is meant to be utilised directly by the oil and gas-bearing communities.”

Recalling the battle by the Igba of Warri Kingdom, Chief Rita Lori-Ogbebor for 13 per cent and Chief Wellington Okirika, who  have been leading the five ethnic nationalities in the state, amongst other states, to demand direct payment of the derivation fund, they noted that those against the bill do not mean well for oil producing communities.

“Among other benefits, the bill will bring to the people the creation of jobs for our teeming youths and women, who are presently jobless  and enhance investment projects,  which will enable the communities manage their funds and become self reliant.

“It will set up development centres in our communities that are difficult to access and develop to mention but a few.  Although, there are observed amendments to be made in the bill which will be in public hearing,  the Itsekiris will ensure that the amendments are pointed out.”