Isoko: The Betrayed Treasure Of Delta State

The Isoko ethnic nationality, despite being one of the major contributors to Nigeria’s oil wealth, remains politically marginalized and economically neglected. The chart below presents a glaring reality: while other ethnic groups in Delta State have consistently occupied strategic positions in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and federal ministerial appointments, Isoko has been completely excluded.

From inception, Urhobo, Anioma, Itsekiri, and Ijaw have enjoyed numerous leadership roles, yet Isoko, which accounts for about 70% of Delta’s oil production, has been met with silence. No Managing Director, no Executive Director, no Minister—only a long history of exclusion despite its vast contribution to the nation’s economy.

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The injustice runs deeper than political marginalisation. The consequences of oil exploration have left Isoko land devastated. Our once-fertile farmlands now lie barren, poisoned by unchecked oil spills. Lakes that once sustained generations have become toxic, killing aquatic life and depriving fishermen of their livelihoods. Gas flaring and environmental pollution have led to increased respiratory diseases, skin infections, and overall poor health among our people. Food insecurity grows as farming and fishing—our ancestral trades—become impossible.

Despite the wealth extracted from Isoko soil, the people remain impoverished, with little to no federal presence in terms of infrastructure, employment, or social welfare. Roads are left to deteriorate, schools remain underfunded, and healthcare is almost non-existent.

I remain a silenced voice, still crying for the emancipation of my people. How long will we be left behind? How long will our contributions be disregarded? The betrayal of Isoko must end. The call for justice must rise beyond whispers. If our resources are good enough to sustain the nation, then our people are good enough to be recognised, represented, and rewarded. Isoko demands fairness. Isoko demands inclusion. Isoko demands its rightful place in the governance and development of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large. Our silence will not last forever.

Sir Divramredje Lawrence Efeturi, ksji.