Ibaji Stakeholders Reject Amended KOSOPADEC Law, Insist on Reversal to 2023 Law

Ibaji stakeholders have rejected the amended Kogi State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (KOSOPADEC) Law of July 2025, describing it as repugnant and oppressive to the Ibaji people.

The stakeholders, who converged at the residence of HRH Dr. John O. Egwemi, Onu Ibaji and Chairman, Ibaji Local Government Traditional Council, are adamant that the 2023 KOSOPADC law should be reinstated.

In a communique issued at the end of the meeting, the stakeholders explained that the principal law of December 2023 satisfies the principles of equity, due process, inclusivity, social justice, and development in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021.

They expressed concerns that the amended law contradicts the principal law and would be detrimental to the interests of the Ibaji people.

The stakeholders have resolved that the amendment be rejected and discarded in totality. They have also advised the Deputy Speaker of the Kogi State House of Assembly to institute a legislative process to repeal the amended Act and revert to the principal law.

Furthermore, they appealed to the State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, to facilitate the reversal of the law to the principal law of 2023.

The stakeholders emphasised their commitment to their stance, stating, “We stand by the resolutions of the joint press conference by Ibaji Unity Forum, Ibaji Progressive Youth Foundation, and the National Ibaji Students Association.”

They urged the State Governor to consider their plea, saying, “We urge the State Governor to take our plea into consideration and facilitate the reversal of the law to the principal law of 2023.”

The stakeholders assured the governor of their continuous support to his administration, expressing confidence that he would address their concerns. This development is significant in the ongoing efforts to ensure that the rights and interests of the Ibaji people are protected and advanced.