Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and safeguarding vital oil infrastructure across the state.
The Governor gave the assurance when he received the leadership of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Edo State Chapter, led by its newly elected Chairman, Mr. Michael Ogiamen, at the Government House, Benin City.
Commending the new IPMAN leadership for amicably resolving its internal crisis, Governor Okpebholo pledged the state government’s continued support toward creating an enabling environment for petroleum marketers to operate efficiently.
He said, “Let me thank the IPMAN leadership and members — the chairman, vice chairman, and regional chairman. I appreciate you all. I was not around when the issue came up, but I immediately instructed my team to ensure that law and order were maintained. I’m glad to see that peace has been restored.”
The Governor urged the association to deepen reconciliation efforts by engaging the other faction and fostering inclusiveness. “I also want you to call the other faction, dialogue with them, and bring them into your fold so that things can move smoothly,” he added.
Addressing concerns over pipeline vandalism along the Benin Depot–Warri Refinery corridor, Okpebholo disclosed that his administration had already established a task force on pipeline monitoring to enhance security and prevent future incidents.
He said, “We have already set up a task force on pipeline monitoring. We will take charge on our part, and I will reach out to the Governor of Delta State so that we can jointly monitor the pipelines to prevent vandalization going forward.”
The Governor further hinted at plans to strengthen the office of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Pipeline Surveillance, Hon. Joseph Okonigene, to ensure effective protection of petroleum infrastructure across Edo State.
Earlier, IPMAN Chairman, Mr. Michael Ogiamen, pledged the association’s commitment to transparency, unity, and continuity of leadership. He assured that his administration would uphold IPMAN’s constitutional practice of smooth leadership succession.
“I can honestly tell you, sir, that at the expiration of my three-year tenure, I will hand over to my vice, Mr. Pius. That has been our tradition, and it will not change,” Ogiamen stated.
Chairman of the government committee that resolved the IPMAN crisis, Comrade Eribo Nwanta, and other members, expressed appreciation to the Governor for his swift intervention, which they said restored stability and peace within the association.
The Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, alongside other top government officials, attended the meeting.
