Okpebholo Ends IPMAN Feud, Moves to Guard Oil Assets in Edo

In a decisive move to sustain peace and protect vital oil infrastructure, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has successfully brokered peace within the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), Edo State Chapter, resolving a lingering leadership tussle that threatened operations in the sector.

The Governor, while receiving the newly-elected IPMAN executives led by Chairman Mr. Michael Ogiamen at Government House, Benin City, hailed the association for embracing dialogue and unity, pledging his administration’s full support to create a conducive environment for petroleum marketers to thrive.

“I’m happy today that you’ve come to tell me that peace has returned. I urge you to dialogue with the other faction and bring everyone together so that things can move smoothly,” Governor Okpebholo said.

The Governor also reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding federal oil assets, disclosing that a task force on pipeline monitoring has already been established to tackle vandalism along the Benin Depot–Warri Refinery corridor.

“We will take charge of our part, but I will also reach out to the Delta State Governor so we can jointly monitor the pipelines and end vandalism,” he added.

Okpebholo further hinted at plans to strengthen the office of the Senior Special Assistant on Pipeline Surveillance, Hon. Joseph Okonigene, to ensure tighter security and efficient oversight of petroleum installations in the State.

In his remarks, IPMAN Chairman Mr. Michael Ogiamen assured the Governor of the association’s renewed commitment to transparency, unity, and leadership continuity, promising a smooth handover process in line with IPMAN’s constitution.

“At the expiration of my three-year tenure, I will hand over to my vice, Mr. Pius. That has been our tradition, and it will not change,” Ogiamen stated.

Chairman of the committee that helped mediate the dispute, Comrade Eribo Nwanta, and other members of the reconciliation team commended Governor Okpebholo for his timely intervention, noting that his leadership brought lasting peace to the association.

The Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, and other senior government officials were also in attendance during the meeting.