Soludo Neglecting Oil-Producing Communities, Says Reps Member Afam Ogene

Soludo Neglecting Oil-Producing Communities, Says Reps Member Afam Ogene
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‎By Rita Onuoha
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‎E-ISSN: 2354-4481
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‎The member representing Ogbaru Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Afam Ogene, has accused the Anambra State Government of neglecting oil-producing communities despite receiving billions of naira in oil derivation revenues.
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‎Speaking during an interview, Ogene alleged that communities such as Ogwuaniocha and Ogwuikpele, which contribute significantly to Anambra's status as an oil-producing state, continue to suffer from poor infrastructure, lack of electricity, inadequate road networks, and the absence of potable water.
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‎According to the lawmaker, successive administrations have failed to ensure that oil-producing communities benefit from the resources generated from their land.
‎He stated that his primary responsibility in the National Assembly has been to provide a strong voice for the Ogbaru people and draw national attention to the challenges facing the constituency.
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‎Ogene also defended the role of opposition lawmakers, saying they have consistently raised concerns about governance and legislative processes while keeping the public informed of issues affecting democracy.
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‎On his relationship with the Anambra State Government, the federal lawmaker said he has repeatedly called on Governor Chukwuma Soludo to address security challenges and infrastructural deficits in Ogbaru, regardless of party differences.
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‎He cited the disappearance of the traditional ruler of Ogwuaniocha in 2021, noting that his intervention prompted the state government to establish a judicial panel of inquiry and provide funds for a mass burial of victims affected by the crisis.
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‎The lawmaker also claimed that his advocacy contributed to the establishment of a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Ogbaru to improve security after attacks on government facilities.
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‎Expressing concern over a proposed modular refinery project in the constituency, Ogene insisted that environmental impact assessments and a memorandum of understanding with host communities must be completed before construction proceeds.
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‎He warned that oil exploration and refining activities could negatively affect farmlands and water sources if proper safeguards are not implemented.
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‎Ogene further accused both the state government and oil companies of failing to deliver corporate social responsibility projects to host communities, stressing that residents continue to live without basic amenities despite the substantial revenues generated from oil production.
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‎He urged affected communities to submit formal petitions through his office, promising to present the matter before the House of Representatives to ensure oil firms and relevant authorities are held accountable.