Governor Okpebholo Restores Peace in Edo IPMAN, Pledges Protection of Federal Oil Assets

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reiterated his administration’s determination to sustain peace and safeguard vital oil infrastructure across the state. He made this known while receiving the leadership of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Edo State Chapter, at the Government House, Benin City.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, and made available to journalists.

During the courtesy visit by the newly elected IPMAN Chairman, Mr. Michael Ogiamen, and other executive members of the association, Governor Okpebholo commended the group for amicably resolving its internal leadership dispute. He assured the new leadership of his administration’s continued support in ensuring a conducive environment for petroleum marketers to thrive.

The Governor said: “Let me thank the IPMAN leadership and members—the chairman, vice chairman, and regional chairman. I thank all of you because I was not around when the issue came up, and I was called upon. I quickly asked my people to ensure law and order were maintained. I’m happy today that you’ve come to tell me you are now in agreement. I also urge you to reach out to the other faction, engage them in dialogue, and integrate them into your fold so that things can move smoothly.”

Addressing the association’s concerns over pipeline vandalization along the Benin Depot–Warri Refinery corridor, Governor Okpebholo disclosed that his administration had set up a task force on pipeline monitoring to enhance security. He added that he would engage his Delta State counterpart to collaborate on protecting the shared infrastructure.

He further stated that the office of the Senior Special Assistant on Pipeline Surveillance, Hon. Joseph Okonigene, would be strengthened to ensure effective monitoring and protection of oil facilities across Edo State.

In his remarks, the new IPMAN Chairman, Mr. Michael Ogiamen, assured the Governor of the association’s commitment to transparency, unity, and leadership continuity. “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 practice, and it will not change according to our constitution,” he said.

Chairman of the committee set up by the Governor to resolve the IPMAN crisis, Comrade Eribo Nwanta, alongside other members, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for his timely intervention, which restored peace within the association.

The Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, and other top government officials were also in attendance.