By Kes Kokodia
Ambassador ( Chief ) Godwin Okporoko, President General, Owahwa Community in OML34, Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, has urged the public to disregard what he described as malicious statement made against him by Zik Gbemre
Recall that Zik Gbemre, Coordinator, Niger Delta Peace Coalition NDPC, had on April 5,2025, while responding to the shutdown of Utorogu Gas by Host Communities, described Okporoko as “ one ignoramus”
Okporoko, from Owahwa Sub-Clan, Ughievwen Kingdom, in a statement on Saturday, faulted Gbemre’s attempt to ridicule or malign his hard-earned reputation.
According him, he was elected President General of Owahwa Community because of the confidence and trust the entire community has for him, noting that he will continue to fight for his people and community.
“ Our protest has yielded positive results and NNPCL Exploration and Production Limited, ND Western Limited have complied with our demands. For example, outstanding Scholarship fund has been paid, Land Rent paid, the BOT/ PIA account has moved from Zenith Bank in Benin to Zenith Bank in Ughelli. The increment of workers salary etc. Negotiation still ongoing and the companies have realized their mistakes”
He pointed out that the protest and shutdown of Utorogu Gas Plant in OML34, on 3rd April 2025, by the 28 Host Communities was for the best interests of the people and to make the company do the needful.
Okporoko, a chieftain of All Progressives Congress APC, said, “ In OML34, we know those who have fraudulent running contracts and making money. We also know those who survive on blackmailing people. They are ready to sacrifice the interests of the host communities to sustain their personal benefits”
He alleged that such an unguided statement made by Gbemre was aimed at blackmailing him and other leaders of host Communities in OML34, who participated in the protest.
Okporoko noted that companies operating in Niger Delta must be diligent, reasonable, accountable and friendly in dealing with their host communities.
