By Kenneth Okunbor

Utesi Community in Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area has accused a Chinese company operating in the area of destroying its road infrastructure with heavy-duty trucks.

Spokesman of the community, Comrade Friday Aiguokhian, who doubles as the President, Sawmillers Association, Edo state chapter, told Super FM that the affected road was constructed by the Edo State Government through the Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOGPADEC) during the administration of Adams Oshiomhole.

He said a Memorandum of Understanding signed before the company began operations in 2014 required it to maintain the road, but alleged that the firm has failed to meet that obligation, leading to its deterioration.

Aiguokhian added that while some individuals benefit from the company’s presence, the community receives little beyond annual royalties and occasional gifts.

He further alleged that both state and local governments collect revenue from the company without involving the host community.

According to him, attempts by the community to introduce a tollgate to support security and welfare were resisted, with community members allegedly chased away by the company’s operatives with the backing of security personnel.

He said several appeals to government agencies, including the state revenue authorities and the local council, have yielded no response.

Raising security concerns, Aiguokhian noted that the community has independently funded local vigilante efforts but lacks government support.

He called on the state and local governments to approve a tollgate system to boost security, create jobs, and improve community welfare.