The Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, 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 on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, during a courtesy visit by the President of Orhuwhorun Community, Engr. John Uviejitobor, to the Council Secretariat in 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 the Udu people.”
Reacting to a purported recent court ruling in favour of the township’s status, the Udu Council Chairman 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 stated firmly.
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 properties 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, Engr. John Uviejitobor, President of Orhuwhorun Community, 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,’ Engr. Uviejitobor stated.
The visit reaffirmed the solidarity between the Udu Council leadership and the traditional communities in safeguarding the cultural and territorial integrity of the area.
