Sarabubor is Gbaramatu land, not Itsekiri, group asserts

The Association of Gbaramatu Female Graduates, from the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, has issued a statement rejecting assertions by Itsekiri groups claiming ownership of Sarabubor Community. 

The group led by Glory Ukulor Otutufegha, President of the Association stressed that "Sarabubor is Gbaramatu land, not Itsekiri."

This demonstration follows a recent publication and protest by a faceless group allegedly claiming ownership of the Sarabubor land.

During a press briefing on November 21st at Sarabubor, President Ukulor urged Chevron Nigeria Limited to maintain its cordial relationship with Sarabubor Community and the Gbaramatu Kingdom, emphasizing the need for renewed commitment to socio-economic development, community empowerment, and infrastructural growth.

"The claims made by this group are baseless, fictitious, and intended to distort historical and cultural truths. Sarabubor Community is an integral and ancestral part of the Gbaramatu Kingdom, and its ownership is not in dispute within any legitimate historical, cultural, or administrative records," Ukulor stated.

The women reiterated their support for peaceful coexistence among neighbouring communities, affirming unity as essential for sustainable development in the region. They assured Chevron and the public of their resolve to maintain the peaceful environment enabling uninterrupted operations in the kingdom.

Nesiama Seigha, Vice President of the National Association of Gbaramatu Students, said, "Sarabubor is not just a soil, it's a ground that holds our history, and future history is going to be built. We disparage every rumour and baseless claim by our neighbours, the Itsekiris. Sarabubor is a community under Gbaramatu Kingdom, and we urge Chevron to acknowledge this."

Speaking further, Amb. Endurance Bekenawei, Pioneer President of Gbaramatu Female Graduates, stated, "Chevron, take note and rewrite the narrative. We're not tenants; we're landlords in our ancestral land. Sarabubor is a community in Gbaramatu, not Itsekiri."

The group appealed to the Delta State Government and Federal Government of Nigeria to address pressing developmental challenges, including improved healthcare, quality education, clean water, and social welfare amenities, citing severe hardship on women, children, and families.