PRESS RELEASE
Afiesre Community Demands Urgent Dialogue with DESOPADEC, Calls for Transparency on Oil Derivation Funds
Ughelli, Delta State – September 10, 2025 — The Afiesre community in Ughelli North Local Government Area, Delta State, has renewed its urgent demand for a transparent and accountable dialogue with the leadership of the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC).
Speaking on behalf of the community, Hon. Akpososo Oghenekaro (Mimikay) decried the persistent neglect of Afiesre, despite hosting 48 oil wells that have contributed enormously to Delta State’s wealth. The community insists on a detailed breakdown of the 7% and 13% oil derivation funds, which were constitutionally mandated to address the environmental damage and socio-economic hardships faced by oil-producing areas.
“We have called, we have cried, and now we are pleading for dialogue to keep the peace,” Hon. Oghenekaro declared. “Afiesre deserves roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and environmental remediation. Instead, we are left in deprivation while our resources fuel the state.”
The community emphasized that it has verifiable evidence, including sand samples from oil sites, to prove its entitlement as a bona fide beneficiary of the derivation funds.
Afiesre’s grievances are heightened by the fact that Delta State reportedly received over ₦2.2 trillion in derivation funds between 2007 and 2024, yet the community continues to suffer environmental degradation, unemployment, and poor infrastructure.
“We are not asking for favors; we demand our rights,” Oghenekaro warned. “If DESOPADEC fails to engage, Afiesre will not hesitate to escalate through peaceful protests, petitions to the EFCC, and legal action until accountability is achieved.”
The Afiesre community reaffirmed its commitment to peaceful dialogue but stressed that its patience is not infinite. The people vowed to remain united and unrelenting until transparency and justice are delivered.
Signed,
Afiesre Community Leadership