Tension has gripped the Isoko community following the arrest of popular youth activist and social commentator, MC Ajirioghene Otagba, after he boldly spoke out against the long-abandoned 132/33KVA substation in Ozoro, Isoko north local government area of Delta State.
The substation, a critical project awarded to Chief Matthew Edevbie’s company by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in the early 2000s, has become a symbol of neglect, leaving the Isoko people in darkness despite their rich contribution to Nigeria’s oil wealth.
In a heartfelt statement addressing the growing unrest, Senator Joel Onowakpo Thomas of Delta South broke his silence, expressing deep concern over the situation and pledging his unwavering support for the Isoko people.
“As an Isoko man, I share your pain and frustration. I will always stand by you,” the senator stated.
Senator Onowakpo acknowledged the deep-seated resentment in Isoko land, a region that has long felt marginalized despite its historical significance as one of Nigeria’s largest onshore crude oil producers, with Uzere being the site of the country’s second oil discovery after Oloibiri in Bayelsa.
Firmly defending the right to free speech, Onowakpo emphasized that no individual should be punished for speaking out against injustice.
“I firmly believe that individuals have the right to speak out against injustice and bring attention to their plight. This is one such case,” he affirmed.
The senator revealed that he had engaged in talks with Chief Matthew Edevbie, who has now agreed to take immediate steps to secure the release of MC Ajirioghene Otagba.
The move, Onowakpo explained, is aimed at easing the tension and preventing further unrest in the already volatile region.
“I urge our leaders to take immediate action to calm nerves and avoid a breakdown of law and order,” he urged, calling for patience as efforts to restart the substation project progress.
Onowakpo highlighted that long before the arrest, quiet but significant discussions had been ongoing between himself, Chief Edevbie, NDDC Managing Director Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Isoko Development Union President-General Prof. Chris Akpotu, and other key stakeholders.
These efforts, he assured, are aimed at reviving the abandoned project.
“I suggest that we allow this process to yield results as soon as Chief Matthew Edevbie releases Ajirioghene as promised,” Onowakpo said, assuring the Isoko people of his commitment to their welfare and development.
The senator concluded with a passionate appeal for peace, understanding, and dialogue, urging the Isoko community to remain united in their pursuit of justice and progress.
“I encourage us to stand together and demand change for the development, uplifting, and positioning of our nationhood,” he declared.
As Isoko elders, youth, and leaders watch closely, there is a renewed hope that the long-overdue power project will finally be revived, bringing much-needed light, both literal and symbolic, to a community that has endured far too long in the shadows.
