Odidi Stakeholders ask Chief Mulade (CEPEJ ) To adhere To Neutrality in GFTO Engagements Amid Pending Court Case

Concerned stakeholders of Odidi Community have called for strict adherence to neutrality and due process in stakeholder engagements relating to the proposed Jonecreek Hydrocarbon(GFTO) project, citing the community’s ongoing leadership dispute currently before the court.

In a statement issued by community leaders and stakeholders, “
We acknowledge and appreciate the position of OML 42 JPMT and Jonecreek Hydrocarbon in maintaining neutrality regarding the ongoing leadership dispute in Odidi Community, which is presently before the court in Suit No. W/102/2026. Such neutrality is essential for preserving peace, stability, and respect for due process.

Stakeholders wish to place on record that prior to the planned GFTO renegotiation trip to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, scheduled from 27th to 31st May 2026, a communication from the Community Relations Department, based on advice from Asset Legal, stated that the Odidi leadership dispute was before the court and therefore sub judice.

The communication advised that all dealings with either party be suspended pending the court’s decision and recommended that engagement with both parties remain on hold until the matter is determined by the court.

This position was communicated to the Odidi Community Executive. It therefore came as a surprise to stakeholders when the parallel Truston Gbenekama-led executive was subsequently invited to participate in stakeholder engagements relating to the proposed Jonecreek Hydrocarbon GFTO Stakeholders view this development as inconsistent with the neutrality and status quo position that had earlier been communicated to all parties.

We are particularly concerned by the role played by Chief Sheriff Mulade in these developments. Having communicated the position that no party would be engaged pending the court’s decision, stakeholders find it troubling that actions were subsequently taken which appeared to facilitate the involvement of one faction through Chief Mulade CEPEJ, allegedly in matters concerning the community.

We therefore issue a strong call on Chief Sheriff Mulade to immediately remove himself from the internal leadership affairs of Odidi Community and refrain from any further actions that may be perceived as interfering in, influencing, or taking sides in a dispute that is currently before a competent court of law. Odidi Community is capable of resolving its leadership issues through lawful and established processes, and external interference can only serve to heighten tensions and create unnecessary conflict.

Stakeholders further caution that any action capable of undermining peace, promoting division, or escalating the leadership dispute may have serious consequences for community stability and could adversely affect the smooth operations of oil and gas companies within OML 42.

Accordingly, we call on the management of OML 42 JPMT, Jonecreek Hydrocarbon, and other relevant companies operating within OML 42 to carefully review and reassess any arrangement that permits individuals acting outside the established neutrality framework to play a role in matters concerning Odidi Community. Stakeholders believe that continued confidence in community engagement processes depends on strict adherence to neutrality, fairness, and respect for ongoing judicial proceedings.

The stakeholders of Odidi Community remain committed to peace, the rule of law, and constructive engagement. However, we will continue to resist any attempt by any individual or group to interfere in the internal affairs of the community or undermine the judicial process.

Furthermore, stakeholders place it on record that any breach of peace, disruption of community harmony, or instability arising from actions that disregard neutrality and due process will be viewed seriously by the community, and responsibility for such actions will rest with those who choose to act contrary to the principles of fairness, neutrality, and respect for the law.”

Reaffirming their commitment to peace, constructive dialogue, and the rule of law, the stakeholders stated that they support the resolution of the leadership dispute through lawful judicial processes and urged all parties to respect the outcome of the court proceedings when delivered.

The statement was signed by:

Mr. Prince Preye Okrikpa, Chairman; Mr. Clement Numah, Secretary; Mr. Mike Komkemele Public Relations Officer; Chief William Mamamu, Chief Lawrence Okrikpa
, Chief Michael Aribogha, Elder Pori Newyear, Elder Godwin Ganiga. Elder Sam Dobowei, Elder Mike Kulu,Chief Isaiah Ibilou
,Engr. Moses Ibilou
Elder Johnson Febunafa,Mr. Joseph Hitler Oyateide, Youth President; Mrs. Nancy Ado, Women Leader; and several other community leaders acting on behalf of the Concerned Stakeholders of Odidi Community.