Table of Contents
- Deputy Governor's Appeal
- Reconciliation Meeting
- Government Commitment
- Disagreements Over Funds
- Sharing Formula
- Enforcement of Agreements
- Community Support
The Deputy Governor of Abia State, Ikechukwu Emetu, has called on the Owaza clan in Ukwa West Local Government Area to prioritize peace, unity, and transparency in managing their oil and gas resources.
Emetu made this appeal during a reconciliation meeting that involved the four autonomous communities of Owaza— Ipu West, Etitioha, Isietitioha, and Igirukwu — which took place at the Government House in Umuahia on Thursday.
He clarified that the purpose of the meeting was to revive the spirit of brotherhood among the communities rather than engage in disputes over figures or percentages, emphasizing that no amount of mineral wealth could surpass the importance of peace and unity.
The Deputy Governor reiterated the Abia State Government's commitment, under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti, to fostering peace, justice, and fairness throughout the communities.
He recalled that conflicts regarding the distribution of the 3 percent Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) funds for 2022, 2023, and 2024 had created tension within the clan, warning that resources intended for development should never lead to division.
Emetu reminded stakeholders of the 2016 resolution approved by former Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, which established a sharing formula of 20:20:30:30 among the four communities based on production volume and infrastructure presence.
While denouncing attempts by some individuals to exploit the situation for personal benefit, the Deputy Governor emphasized that truth and fairness must prevail.
He further assured attendees that the state government would uphold the provisions of the White Paper and existing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with TotalEnergies and Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) to maintain peace and ensure equitable distribution of benefits.
During the meeting, Eze Obioma Nwaogu from the Etitioha community and the traditional Prime Minister of Ipu West, Maxwell Nwagbara, along with others, praised the Deputy Governor for his dedication to implementing the previous administration’s MoU, pledging to uphold peace within the clan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main purpose of the reconciliation meeting?
The main purpose of the reconciliation meeting was to revive the spirit of brotherhood among the Owaza communities and to promote peace, unity, and transparency in managing their resources.
What issues were discussed regarding the Petroleum Industry Act funds?
The discussions centered around the disagreements related to the distribution of the 3 percent Petroleum Industry Act funds for 2022, 2023, and 2024, and the need to ensure that these resources do not cause division within the clan.
What sharing formula was established for the communities?
A sharing formula of 20:20:30:30 was established among the four communities based on production volume and the presence of infrastructure, as approved by former Governor Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu in 2016.
