Stakeholders from oil-producing communities in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State have called on the Federal and Imo State Governments to accelerate development in the area, citing decades of neglect despite the region’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s oil and gas revenue.
The appeal was made during a town hall meeting in Mmahu, Egbema, attended by traditional rulers, political leaders, youth and women groups, who demanded improved infrastructure, quality healthcare, education, potable water, employment opportunities and greater political inclusion.
Traditional rulers and community leaders said sustained government investment in the oil-bearing communities would improve living standards, reduce youth restiveness and promote lasting peace and economic growth.
Former Ohaji/Egbema Council Chairman, Kingsley Ijeoma, also called for increased participation of the area’s people in governance and greater access to jobs.
While commending President Bola Tinubu and Governor Hope Uzodimma for ongoing development efforts, former governorship candidate Ejike Chukwu urged both governments to prioritise the needs of oil-producing communities, stressing that the wealth generated from the region should translate into tangible benefits for its residents.
