The Executive Chairman of Orhionmwon Local Government Council, Hon. Thompson Osagie, on Monday, April 20, 2026, warmly received a high-powered delegation of the Host Communities Development Committee, Edo State chapter, on a courtesy visit at the Council Secretariat in Abudu. In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman, Dennis Ugbudian, the visit was led by the State Chairman of HostCom, Mr. Stanley Osayande, and was part of activities lined up ahead of the State Executive inauguration scheduled for Saturday, April 25, 2026. Dennis Ugbudian noted that the delegation formally invited the Council Chairman to the forthcoming inauguration and engaged in fruitful discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration between HostCom and the local government for the advancement of host communities.
Speaking during the visit, the State Chairman of HostCom, Mr. Stanley Osayande, commended Hon. Osagie for his impactful leadership and visible developmental strides since assuming office. He emphasised the need for synergy between HostCom and the Council to address longstanding challenges confronting host communities, expressing concern over what he described as the inadequate commitment of oil companies operating in Edo State to their host communities. Osayande stressed that the level of development in these areas does not reflect their contributions to the nation’s oil wealth and also highlighted pressing security concerns, particularly the menace of herdsmen attacks on farmlands, which he said has severely disrupted agricultural activities and livelihoods.
In his response, Hon. Thompson Osagie expressed appreciation for the visit, describing HostCom as a familiar and impactful body with a long-standing history of advocacy for host communities. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the organisation and advancing the collective interests of Orhionmwon people, stressing the importance of unity, trust, and inclusiveness within HostCom, noting that cohesion remains vital in achieving meaningful progress. He assured the delegation of his willingness to attend the upcoming inauguration, subject to official engagements. Dennis Ugbudian further quoted the Chairman as lamenting the lack of corresponding development in Orhionmwon despite its status as an oil-producing area.
Hon. Osagie did not mince words in expressing concern over the disconnect between Orhionmwon’s status as an oil-producing area and the realities on ground, calling on HostCom to intensify its advocacy efforts. He also challenged oil companies to demonstrate greater corporate responsibility, citing instances where employment opportunities meant for local youths were either mismanaged or diverted, and cautioned community leaders against sidelining young people in matters that directly affect their future, urging fairness and transparency in job placements. The Chairman further criticised the operational approach of some oil companies, particularly highlighting the absence of meaningful engagement with host communities, and called for stronger accountability.
On infrastructure and development, Hon. Osagie outlined several ongoing and completed projects across the local government, including classroom blocks, market stalls, and community halls at various stages of completion, emphasising the need for collective support, especially in delivering critical projects such as rural electrification. Addressing security concerns, the Chairman described kidnapping as a serious challenge requiring collective vigilance and urged residents to be proactive and cooperate with security agencies, noting that internal collaboration often enables criminal activities. He also used the occasion to commend the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his developmental strides and support to Orhionmwon.
Adding to the discussion, Chief Isaac Osemwengie Ero advocated for community-based recruitment into local security structures, emphasising that indigenes possess better knowledge of their environment, and recommended the clearing of hideouts and dark spots to curb criminal activities. In the same vein, Mr. Osayande disclosed that HostCom is partnering with the European Security Academy to enhance security in host communities, noting that representatives of the organisation are expected to participate in the upcoming inauguration. Also speaking, the Orhionmwon HostCom Chairman, Comrade Conscience Igue, expressed appreciation to Hon. Osagie for his support and guidance, assuring him of the group’s loyalty and readiness to collaborate in addressing oil and gas-related issues in the area.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with renewed commitment from both parties to deepen cooperation for the peace, security, and development of Orhionmwon Local Government Area. Dennis Ugbudian confirmed that the delegation comprised prominent stakeholders including Comrade Conscience Igue, Mr. Godfrey Ogbomwan, Comrade Joseph Okoro, Mr. Atekha Sunday, Mr. Famous Iguisi, Hon. Best Uwagboi Atiti, Mr. Eghosa Ogieva, Chief Isaac Ero, Mrs. Evelyn Ogbemudia, and Mrs. Darlington Ogbeide, reflecting the committee’s inclusive approach and shared commitment to grassroots development. Key officials from the Council present included the Legal Adviser, Barr. Benson Ogbebor, the Head of Department of Information, Madam Phina, and the Personal Assistant to the Chairman, Hon. Endurance Iduwe, alongside other senior staff.
