The Edo State Government has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to immediately order a suspension of crude oil drilling in the disputed oil wells between Edo and Delta states pending the conclusion of the long-running boundary dispute.

Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa made the appeal in Benin on Friday while receiving the Director General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Adamu Adaji, and his team. He also urged the President to freeze the accounts of Delta-based oil companies operating in the area, insisting such action would guarantee fairness during the ongoing investigation.

“I want to appeal to the President to instruct regulatory agencies to stop all benefits accruing to Delta State until this matter is resolved,” Idahosa said. “It is clear that Delta State is playing games with us and with the NBC. They know these assets belong to Edo State.”

The Deputy Governor called on the commission to thoroughly review all documents submitted by both parties, noting that while Edo submitted its materials as far back as July, Delta had not done the same. He warned that residents of affected communities, particularly Orogho and Urhonigbe, were already experiencing severe hardship and that prolonged delay could trigger internal unrest.

“Our people are suffering from resources meant to benefit them. If this issue lingers, it could lead to internal or communal crises. That is why we want it resolved as soon as possible,” he cautioned.

In response, NBC Director General Adamu Adaji reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to fast-tracking the process. He said the visit formed part of efforts to conclude the matter without undue delays.

“We cannot allow any party to delay the process. We will interface with both sides individually where clarity is needed. This will be done using available delineation documents and established procedures before making recommendations to the Federal Government,” Adaji said.

Meanwhile, Edo State Governor Monday Okpehbolo, on Tuesday, announced that his administration had created more than 10,000 direct and indirect jobs since assuming office. Speaking during an event marking his first year in office, he also unveiled a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme for small businesses and traders.

Okpehbolo said his first year had been dedicated to restoring public trust, rebuilding institutional structures, and replacing “PowerPoint governance” with practical, people-focused leadership.

He further revealed that his administration inherited over ₦600 billion in local and foreign debts and ₦180 billion owed to contractors. According to him, prudent management under the SHINE Agenda had significantly reduced the state’s debt burden.