The Urhobo Ethnic Nationality chapter of HOSTCOM (Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas) has successfully resolved its prolonged leadership crisis, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to restore unity and accountability.
This development positions the chapter as a formidable entity ready to support the re-election bid of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori in 2027. The resolution was achieved during a meeting held on December 17, 2024, at the Ughelli Kingdom Hall, which brought together key stakeholders to address longstanding disputes.
The leadership crisis, which began in 2017, revolved around allegations of leadership imposition and financial mismanagement. Controversy erupted when Mr. Andrew Obirherhe Agoyo was controversially installed as chairman in 2018, allegedly with the backing of political aides under former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. This move sidelined the elected chairman, Comrade Pender Agwarive, whose tenure was suspended to allow Agoyo to serve a single four-year term. However, Agoyo’s administration faced criticism for financial improprieties and a failure to adhere to HOSTCOM’s constitutional guidelines.
During the reconciliation meeting, leaders reviewed Agoyo’s tenure, highlighting key incidents such as his suspension for misconduct in 2018 and subsequent impeachment over allegations of embezzling funds meant for the Urhobo chapter. The resolution process culminated in the restoration of Comrade Pender Agwarive as chairman to address governance lapses and rebuild trust within the organization.
Central to the discussions was the handling of a recent ₦300 million disbursement by the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC) to HOSTCOM. The funds, part of a ₦525 million budget approved by the state government, were intended for projects such as vehicle procurement, secretariat renovations, and capacity-building programs. Stakeholders alleged that Agoyo mismanaged the funds, disbursing only ₦200,000 to each local government chapter while withholding significant amounts without proper accountability. Leaders emphasized the need for transparent oversight of the remaining ₦225 million to ensure equitable distribution and effective project implementation.
To strengthen governance, the meeting established a committee to harmonize positions within the Urhobo HOSTCOM chapter and align its structure with state and national frameworks. This initiative aims to promote unity and effective representation of Urhobo interests in HOSTCOM affairs. Leaders also resolved to withdraw pending litigation against Agoyo, Sweet Otiotio, and DESOPADEC, signaling a commitment to reconciliation and collaboration.
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Comrade Pender Agwarive[/caption]
A notable outcome of the reconciliation process was the emphasis on youth engagement and security. Leaders agreed to revisit the allocation of youth security funds to ensure inclusiveness and reduce tensions. This decision underscores the chapter’s commitment to addressing the concerns of all stakeholders and fostering a sense of belonging within the organization.
The reconciled leadership expressed gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his support, particularly his efforts to address the developmental needs of oil-producing communities through DESOPADEC. Leaders highlighted the governor’s commitment to grassroots development as a key motivator for their pledge to mobilize support for his re-election in 2027. They also acknowledged the significant economic contributions of Urhobo communities to Delta State’s oil and gas sector, stressing the need to leverage this influence for additional investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare.
As the largest ethnic chapter in Delta State, encompassing ten local government areas, the Urhobo HOSTCOM’s unity is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the state’s political landscape. The resolution of the leadership crisis reinforces the chapter’s position as a vital player in Governor Oborevwori’s 2027 campaign and a key advocate for the interests of Urhobo communities.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to fostering unity, transparency, and development. Leaders called on all members to prioritize the collective good and work together to advance the progress of Urhobo communities and Delta State as a whole. The reconciled HOSTCOM leadership further urged state authorities to recognize Comrade Pender Agwarive and Hon. Uwaye Joseph Uruere as the legitimate chairman and youth leader, respectively, for the Urhobo ethnic chapter.
In a gesture of goodwill, HOSTCOM leaders extended holiday greetings to Governor Oborevwori, wishing him a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. The resolution of the leadership crisis underscores the power of dialogue and collaboration in overcoming challenges and building a stronger future for the Urhobo HOSTCOM chapter and its stakeholders.
