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Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has warned against attempts to sow division among residents of Tongegi Island and other parts of the state over ongoing oil exploration in the Ogun Waterside Local Government Area.
The governor issued the warning while inaugurating the Abeokuta–Obalende and Osinubi New Roads in Ijebu-Ode.
He clarified that the Nigerian government, through the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), is responsible for the oil drilling activities, not the Ogun State Government, contrary to claims circulating in some quarters.
Abiodun explained that although authorities have identified hydrocarbon deposits in parts of Ogun Waterside, including Tongegi Island, they have yet to confirm their commercial viability.
He dismissed allegations that officials had diverted funds meant for oil exploration, describing the claims as misleading and politically driven.
According to the governor, reports of crude-like substances seeping from the ground prompted technical investigations by the NNPCL.
He said preliminary tests suggested the presence of oil, but only drilling—approved by the President—can determine whether it exists in commercial quantities.
He hinted that security around the drilling site has been significantly enhanced with the establishment of a naval base near the oil well to protect national assets.
Abiodun also expressed concern over what he described as misrepresentation of his remarks in sections of the media, which he said generated unnecessary controversy.
“At no time did I state that commercial drilling had begun at Tongegi Island. What we have are encouraging signs, not confirmation of commercial quantity,” he said.
The governor further disclosed that authorities have set up a naval post at Tongegi Island and approved a forward operating base to strengthen Nigeria’s territorial presence.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for reviving the Olokola Deep Sea Port project, noting that it would significantly enhance Ogun State’s economic prospects, with visible progress expected within a year.
On infrastructure, Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving road networks across the state, stressing that performance, rather than rhetoric, remains the government’s response to criticism.
