Residents of Otekpo quarter in Ellu community, Isoko North Local Government Area of Delta State, have accused oil companies of neglect and unfair treatment, demanding urgent redress over unpaid obligations.
In a petition addressed to Sterling Global, the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), and other stakeholders and copied to the Ellu monarch, security agencies, and local authorities — the community alleged years of marginalisation and broken promises.
The petition, signed by Otekpo representatives Uzezi Warri and Odio Ogugberi, highlighted the non-payment of salaries to local surveillance workers who have continued securing company assets despite months without compensation.
The community also alleged that rent for an access road and a 16-inch delivery pipeline running through Otekpo land has been left unpaid.
Beyond financial grievances, Otekpo accused the Ellu Community Development Association (ECDA) and the Osa family of monopolising trucking benefits from the access road, despite Otekpo hosting the largest stretch of the infrastructure.
They further decried their exclusion from community development slots and empowerment opportunities enjoyed by other quarters.
“We bear the burden, but others reap the benefits. That is not just neglect, it is exploitation,” the petition stated.
The residents demanded immediate settlement of outstanding payments, fair inclusion in community benefits, and restoration of their entitlements.
They warned of peaceful protests and possible legal action if their grievances remain unaddressed, while urging state and federal authorities to intervene to prevent a breakdown of peace.
