By Chizy Opara
Date: October 16, 2025
Imo State, Nigeria — Renowned activist and community leader, Prince Maduba Chukwudi Francis, popularly known as OluImo, has raised a strong alarm over the worsening poverty and neglect in oil-producing communities within Imo State. He called on both the Federal and State Governments to take urgent action to address the deplorable conditions of these communities.
OluImo, during a recent visit to Assa, Awarra, and Obile communities in Ohaji/Egbema and Oguta Local Government Areas, expressed deep concern over the total collapse of basic infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. According to him, despite the enormous wealth generated from oil exploration in the region, the host communities remain trapped in poverty, with no meaningful development to show for their contributions to the nation’s economy.
“What I saw in these communities is heartbreaking. People are living in extreme poverty amidst so much oil wealth. The roads are impassable, there are no functional health centers, and the schools are in ruins. It is an injustice of the highest order,” OluImo stated.
He further lamented that Ekwerrede, Agwa, and other oil-bearing communities in the state are also suffering from years of neglect, poor governance, and environmental degradation due to oil exploration activities. He stressed that the people have endured enough and deserve immediate intervention and justice.
OluImo called on the Federal Government, Imo State Government, and relevant agencies, including the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), to live up to their responsibilities by launching targeted development projects in these communities.
“We are not begging for charity; we are demanding justice. The people of Assa, Obile, Awarra, Ekwerrede, Agwa, and others deserve access to good roads, clean water, quality education, and proper healthcare. These are basic human rights,” he emphasized.
The activist urged traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and the media to amplify the voices of the marginalized communities and ensure that the suffering of the people is not swept under the rug.
His call comes amid renewed nationwide discussions about resource control, environmental justice, and equitable development in the Niger Delta. OluImo’s impassioned plea adds a powerful voice to the growing demand for transparency and accountability in the distribution of oil wealth in Nigeria.
