Peace has finally returned to the Olugbobiri community in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State as Chief Allen Otobo was on Monday sworn in as the new Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC). His inauguration ends months of leadership disputes that created a power vacuum in the oil-rich community.
The ceremony, held at the community town square, also ushered in a 12-member executive council that will oversee community affairs for the next two years. The election process had suffered repeated delays due to disagreements that escalated into litigation, prompting the intervention of the Bayelsa State Government to restore order.
Speaking after administering the oath of office, the Paramount Ruler of Olugbo Kingdom, HRH King Clifford Mangiri, expressed relief over the return of stability. The monarch, who earlier led journalists and security operatives on an inspection of vandalized properties linked to the dispute, urged community members to embrace reconciliation.
He appealed to residents to put the crisis behind them and support the new leadership, stressing that unity was essential for sustainable development.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Allen Otobo described the inauguration as “a new dawn” for Olugbobiri. He thanked the Bayelsa State Government, the traditional council, and peace advocates who helped facilitate the resolution of the protracted dispute.
Otobo pledged to lead with transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability. He also promised to prioritize community development and strengthen engagement with oil companies operating in the area.
“Our focus will be on rebuilding trust and accelerating development,” he said. “We must move forward together as one united community.”
Also speaking at the event, Chief Paul Ajiki commended the government for its timely mediation, noting that the restored peace would enable the new executive to consolidate on stability and progress.
Representing the Commissioner for Community Development, Hon. Alfred Belemote, Dr. Fekosufa Amaebi praised the peaceful conduct of the swearing-in ceremony. He said the unity displayed by residents aligned with the state government’s broader agenda of peacebuilding and cooperation at the grassroots.
“What Olugbobiri has demonstrated today is a commitment to lasting peace,” Amaebi said.
Residents expressed optimism that with the leadership crisis now resolved, attention can shift to infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and improved relations with oil-producing firms operating in the community.
Community observers also noted that the return of a functional CDC would provide an opportunity to strengthen dialogue, ensure equitable distribution of benefits, and create a conducive atmosphere for partnerships aimed at improving local livelihoods.
With the new executive fully inaugurated, stakeholders hope that Olugbobiri will leverage its restored stability to attract development initiatives and maximize opportunities within the region’s oil and gas sector.
