By Lucky Uto
Residents of Odidi Federated Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State have extended the tenure of their executive council led by Chairman Prince Preye Okrikpa by an additional four years.
The decision was reached during a community congress held at Odidi Primary School over the weekend, where members also agreed on the need to draft a written constitution to guide the affairs of the oil-producing community.
Odidi hosts OML 42 and residents said the proposed constitution would help regulate elections, strengthen governance and reduce leadership disputes, especially during transitions.
Speaking at the congress, Okrikpa appreciated members of the community for their support in the past three years, noting that the administration had achieved notable progress despite internal challenges.
According to him, the leadership secured the inclusion of Odidi 1 and Odidi 2 in the benefits of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), ensuring that families, women and youths benefit from resources generated by oil companies operating in the area.
He also said the administration purchased two local boats to transport pupils to Odidi Primary School, improved security in the community and successfully defended Odidi in an external court case.
The chairman, however, identified some lingering challenges such as internal disputes, youth unemployment, external litigations and encroachment on community land, adding that the absence of a written constitution has affected effective governance in the community.
Several stakeholders at the meeting supported the move to adopt a constitution.
They included Chief Michael Aribogha, Mr. Pory NewYear, Mr. Godwin Caniga, High Chief Lawrence Kodi Okrikpa, as well as women leaders Mrs. Nancy Ado and Mrs. Kate Mamamu.
Also speaking, the Youth President, Mr. Hitler Oyateide Joseph, urged residents to remain united, stressing that peace and cooperation were necessary for the development of the community.
