ORHIONMWON LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL ADDRESSES LAND DISPUTE BETWEEN COMMUNITIES AND PRESCO PLC

Abudu, Edo State – A critical high-level stakeholders’ meeting was convened on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, by the Executive Chairman of Orhionmwon Local Government Council, Hon. Thompson Osagie, to tackle brewing tensions over land acquisition between Obozogbe Niro, Ugboko Niro Communities, and Presco Plc. The gathering, held at the Council’s Administrative Headquarters in Abudu, also included representatives from relevant government agencies and was described as cordial, frank, and constructive.

According to Chief Press Secretary to The Executive Chairman, Dennis Ugbudian, the meeting aimed to address issues related to land acquisition, business operations, and community relations concerning a proposed agricultural project by Presco Plc within parts of Orhionmwon Local Government Area. Hon. Osagie emphasized that the engagement became necessary following concerns raised by the host communities in a statement on a letter previously issued by Presco Plc, indicating the company had acquired hectares of land through the Edo State Government during the past administration. He noted that the matter had lingered due to inadequate consultation and required urgent dialogue to prevent further tension and ensure peaceful coexistence.

Key stakeholders from Obozogbe Niro Community included Pa Alex Uhunmwangho, Mr. Mathew Ogbebor, Mr. Amas Oghoghogiare, and Mr. Osagie Emwinghare. Representing Ugboko Niro Community were Mr. Peter Ogbeiwi, Mr. Felix Iyamu, Richard Erinmwingbovo, and Roland Abusomwan. The Presco Plc delegation comprised Mr. Charles Onwuasoanya, Mr. Israel Adaramoye, and Mrs. Omolara Ezra. Officials from the Edo State Oil Palm Programme (EDSOPP), Mr. Emmanuel Omodiagbon and Mr. Oseriemen Inegbedion, were also present.

Speaking on behalf of Presco Plc, Mr. Israel Adaramoye stated that the company had acquired approximately 10,000 hectares of land from the Edo State Government for an oil palm development project spanning about ten communities, including Obozogbe Niro and Ugboko Niro. He revealed that while an initial engagement had taken place, subsequent follow-up meetings and essential land studies were stalled due to lack of access. Mr. Adaramoye highlighted that Presco Plc had conducted an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and required further studies, including participatory land demarcation, to determine the exact land size within each community. He stressed that the purpose of the engagement was to foster collaboration, clarify concerns, and achieve a win-win outcome for all parties, adding that prolonged delays were increasing operational costs for the company.

In response from Obozogbe Niro Community, Mr. Amas Oghoghogiare stated that their delegation was mandated by community elders to listen and report back. He recalled assurances given by the current Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, during his electioneering campaign regarding the return of the land for community use, and affirmed that the community awaited clarity from the present administration. Similarly, Mr. Roland Abusonwan of Ugboko Niro Community reiterated that the land remained a critical source of livelihood for the people and emphasized the need for the Governor to clearly state his position on the matter.

Hon. Thompson Osagie intervened, stressing the importance of dialogue, transparency, and community inclusion in land-related matters. He acknowledged past lapses in stakeholder engagement that contributed to the current challenges and urged all parties to focus on peaceful and lawful resolution. He commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his people-centred leadership and commitment to grassroots development, citing recent investments in rural infrastructure across Edo State as evidence of the administration’s development agenda.

As a way forward, Hon. Osagie advised Presco Plc to formally engage the Edo State Government through appropriate channels, noting that government adjudication would provide clarity and a lasting resolution. He appealed to the communities to remain open to dialogue and assured them of the government’s commitment to protecting their interests. He also proposed the creation of a broader stakeholders’ forum involving all relevant parties to harmonize positions and chart a sustainable path forward.

Mr. Charles Onwuasoanya of Presco Plc reaffirmed that the company would not proceed with any activity without community consent and appealed for permission to carry out non-intrusive preliminary studies, assuring that culturally significant sites would be respected and protected. However, Hon. Osagie advised caution, noting that such activities could be misinterpreted at the community level. He disclosed plans to engage the Deputy Governor, Ministry of Agriculture, EDSOPP, and Ministry of Local Government, with a formal briefing to the Governor for a comprehensive and coordinated response.

Mr. Emmanuel Omodiagbon of EDSOPP outlined the agency’s mandate in supervising oil palm projects in the interest of host communities, investors, and government, highlighting its role in conflict resolution and community engagement across the state. In his closing remarks, Hon. Thompson Osagie stressed the need for sustained public enlightenment, education, and stakeholder sensitization, particularly by relevant agencies, to prevent misunderstandings in large-scale agricultural investments. He reaffirmed that development must be pursued responsibly, with respect for ancestral land rights and livelihoods. The Chairman thanked all delegates for their maturity, patience, and commitment to peace, urging them to relay the discussions to their respective constituencies as consultations continue. The press release was signed by Dennis Ugbudian.