Dafinone pledges to protect Urhobo interests in Delta gas park

Senator Ede Dafinone, the representative of Delta Central Senatorial District, has vowed to safeguard the economic interests of the Urhobo people in the dispute over the planned Industrial Gas Park in Sanubi-Orogun, Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State. In a statement to journalists in Warri, Dafinone, who serves as the Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Local Content, expressed his unwavering support for the project, rejecting any proposal that could deprive the Urhobo nation of its economic benefits.

The senator emphasized that his stance is rooted in the need to protect the collective interests of the senatorial district and that he has become more actively involved with the project through his legislative oversight responsibilities and interactions with the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board. Dafinone acknowledged that genuine challenges exist, including land acquisition, ownership disputes, and concerns over the proposed location.

However, he clarified that these issues should not be dismissed or misrepresented as opposition to the project or attempts to remove it from Urhobo land. The senator reiterated that any decisions regarding the future location of the Industrial Gas Park must be carefully evaluated to prevent the loss of economic opportunities from Urhobo territory.

Dafinone acknowledged that legitimate technical, environmental, or land-related concerns may necessitate adjustments, and such decisions should be made through proper consultation, considering the economic interests of the Urhobo people. He stressed that the Industrial Gas Park presents a significant opportunity for investment, job creation, and industrial development in the area.

The lawmaker urged stakeholders to approach the matter with maturity and a commitment to finding a lasting solution that preserves the industrial and economic benefits for the people of Urhobo land.