By Abolanle Rokeebat (SIWES student, Grace land Polytechnic Offa)
The residents of Okomu community in Edo State’s Ovia South West Local Government Area express dissatisfaction with the perceived neglect and marginalization by Okomu Palm Oil, a multinational company, and the management of the National Park.
Despite hosting a national park and the palm oil firm, the ancient Okomu community and its surroundings feel neglected, with community leader Mr. Friday Atele highlighting unmet expectations since Okomu Oil Palm Company’s establishment in 1976.
He emphasized the desire for development and positive impact but noted that the current situation is vastly different, with communities seemingly pushed to the brink.
Chief Freeman Cousin, another local leader, attributes the alleged neglect to the state government’s failure to recognize Okomu community as a unique and indigenous entity, posing a significant challenge to the community’s well-being.
