By Lucky Uto
The oil-rich Odidi Federated Community, host of OML 42 in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, has extended the tenure of its chairman, Prince Preye Okrikpa, and his executive members by four years, while initiating moves to adopt a written constitution to guide the affairs of the community.
The resolutions were reached during the community’s general congress held on Sunday at Odidi Primary School, where elders, youths, women, and other stakeholders reviewed the administration’s performance and discussed key issues affecting the community.
Members at the meeting unanimously supported the drafting of a written constitution aimed at strengthening governance and reducing leadership disputes, particularly during transitions.
Addressing the congress, Prince Okrikpa thanked members for their support over the past three years, noting that the administration had recorded significant achievements despite internal challenges.
He said the leadership secured the inclusion of Odidi 1 and Odidi 2 under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), ensuring that families, women, and youths benefit from resources generated by oil companies operating in the community.
The chairman also disclosed that the administration purchased two local boats to convey pupils to Odidi Primary School, improved community security, and successfully defended the community in an external court case.
He, however, identified lingering challenges including internal disputes, youth unemployment, external litigations, and encroachment on community land, adding that the absence of a written constitution has long affected effective governance.
Several stakeholders who spoke at the congress supported the adoption of a constitution, including Chief Michael Aribogha, Pory NewYear, Mr. Godwin Caniga, High Chief Lawrence Kodi Okrikpa, and community women leaders Mrs. Nancy Ado and Mrs. Kate Mamamu.
Also speaking, Youth President Mr. Hitler Oyateide Joseph urged residents to remain united, stressing that peace and cooperation are essential for the progress of the community.
The congress ended with a renewed commitment by community leaders and residents to work together for peace, unity, and sustainable development in Odidi.
