Polobubo communities protest alleged exclusion from N400bn Delta Infrastructure projects

2026-03-16 - 04:17

By Jimitota Onoyume Polobubo (Tsekelewu) and its bloc communities in Warri North Local government area of Delta state have kicked against their alleged exclusion from recently approved infrastructure projects worth over ₦400 billion by the state government. A statement signed by the president Paul Toruwei and the Youth leader Comr. Markson Juwoiye Aboh, lauded the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure across the state but expressed disappointment that the areas were not included in the list of projects announced by the state. The community leaders harped on the significance of fairness, equity and balanced development in the state particularly given the strategic contribution of their area to the state’s economy. According to them, Polobubo (Tsekelewu) and its bloc communities host major oil companies including Chevron, NPDC, Sahara Energy and Conoil, adding that oil production activities in the axis account for more than 20 per cent of Delta State’s petroleum output. The communities noted that despite their significant contribution to the state’s economic prosperity, they continue to grapple with poor infrastructure, difficult access routes and limited government presence. They further urged the government to accommodate the areas in its proposed development projects across the state. The statement reads: “For decades, our land and resources have sustained the economic prosperity of Delta State. Yet our communities continue to suffer from serious infrastructural deficits and poor accessibility. “In particular, we are concerned that over ₦400 billion is being committed to road infrastructure across the state without consideration for critical projects in our area, including the Trans-Egbema Road from Ogbudugbudu/Ogbinbiri to Polobubo, the Polobubo Internal road network earlier approved during the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Okowa then it becomes increasingly difficult for our people to understand why communities that contribute so much to the economic strength of Delta State continue to experience neglect in terms of development. “We therefore respectfully call on the Delta State Government to: Review the recently approved infrastructure projects and urgently include Polobubo (Tsekelewu) and its Bloc Communities. “Prioritize the construction of the Trans-Egbema Road linking Ogbudugbudu/Ogbinbiri to Polobubo . “Implement the previously approved Polobubo internal road networks. “Ensure equitable distribution of development projects, particularly to oil-producing host communities that contribute significantly to the state’s revenue. “The people of Polobubo (Tsekelewu) and its Bloc Communities remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to the progress and stability of Delta State. However, we strongly believe that justice, fairness, and inclusive development must guide government policies and actions. “We urge the Delta State Government to urgently address this oversight in the interest of equity, sustainable development, and continued cooperation between host communities and government”.