Ward Delineation: Odidi Leadership Clarifies Ownership of Tekedor-Kusimi (Egwe II), Apalagbene in Delta
By Ezekiel Kagbala
The leadership of the Odidi Federated Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area, Delta State has issued a definitive statement asserting that the oil-rich areas of Tekedor Kusimi and Apalagbene, situated within the Egwa II and Odidi oil fields, are not under the jurisdiction of the Kunukunuma Federated Community of Gbaramatu Kingdom.
In a statement issued at a press conference held on Monday, June 17th, 2025, in Warri Delta State by the community leaders, and signed by the community secretary, Comrade Clement Numa, and the PRO, Mr. Michael Konkemele said, "We want to make it abundantly clear that Tekedor Kusimi and Apalagbene (Egwa II) are integral parts of the Odidi Federated Community. Our ancestors have inhabited and utilized these lands for generations, and we will not stand by while others attempt to claim what rightfully belongs to us in the name of Ward delineation by the independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
The Odidi community leaders also noted that their attention has been drawn to a publication suggesting that the mentioned area is under Kunukunuma, Gbaramatu Kingdom, while vehemently refuting the claim, they expressed concerns that the misrepresentation could lead to conflicts if not addressed by the appropriate authorities.
The community leaders further urged the Federal government, the independent National Electoral Commission, the Delta State government, security operatives, and relevant authorities to call the people of Kunukunuma to order
"There is no virgin land in Odidi Territory. If Kunukunuma people want to push their claims, they should go to court to prove the basis of their claims. You cannot annex the land of others by mere declaration in the media and the electoral ward Delineation process."
The community leaders further stated that the people of Kunukunuma are bent on causing crises with the erroneous and dubious claim of communities under Odidi Territory and that they will resist the illegal expansionist agenda. "While we call on the government to intervene and ensure that our rights are respected, we will not hesitate to defend our heritage and resources if necessary," they added.
