THE Chairman, Udu Local Government Area, Hon. Vincent Oyibode, has reaffirmed the council’s position on the status of DSC Township, declaring unequivocally that the area will not be accorded community recognition under his administration.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the President of Orhuwhorun Community, Engr. John Uviejitobor, to the council secretariat, Otor-Udu, Hon. Oyibode condemned what he described, as illegal and misguided attempts by some individuals to “establish DSC Township as an independent community on land historically owned by Udu people.”
Reacting to a purported recent court ruling in favour of the township’s status, the Udu local government Boss described the move as ‘desperate and unfounded,’ reiterating that ancestral land ownership and traditional authority could not be overridden by such claims.
“I cannot and I will not recognize DSC Township as a community. It will not happen — not in my time,”.Oyibode said.
He traced the origins of DSC Township to the now-defunct Delta Steel Company, explaining that the current settlers were initially company employees and not native to the land. According to him, the naming of sectors and building of private property on the land does not translate into the establishment of a legitimate community.
‘People came, built houses and named streets — that does not make it a community. You cannot develop on someone else’s ancestral land and suddenly begin to make territorial claims,’ he said.
Oyibode stressed the need for strict adherence to traditional and customary procedures, when seeking community recognition, noting that there is a clear distinction between a family settlement and a duly constituted community.
He warned that any recognition granted to DSC Township through unofficial or political means would remain invalid, even beyond the end of his tenure.
Earlier, President, Orhuwhorun Community, Engr. John Uviejitobor, had expressed appreciation for the chairman’s clarity and unwavering commitment to protecting Udu ancestral heritage. He also praised Oyibode’s ongoing development initiatives across the local government area.
‘Your boldness and clarity on this issue are commendable. Udu people are proud of your leadership,’ Uviejitobor said
