By Foster Akpore | Orhoera, Orogun Kingdom | October 29, 2025
Community harmony and institutional partnership took centre stage on Wednesday when the Onotu-Uku of Orogun Kingdom, Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo JP, met with leaders of Orhoera community to discuss ways of strengthening relations between the host community and the Federal Polytechnic Orogun.
The meeting, held at the palace of the Okarhoro of Orhomuru, Orhoera-Orogun, followed a recent visit by Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo to the management of the Federal Polytechnic Orogun to reward students who emerged first in a national quiz competition against the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE) and the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI). During that visit, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Professor Duke Okoro, privately expressed concern over reports that some students were finding it difficult to secure affordable accommodation off-campus, a situation which, he said, allegedly led to the loss of about one hundred students in the previous academic session.
Chief Efe-Nogo conveyed the Rector’s concern to the Orhoera leadership, appealing for dialogue and understanding between landlords and students. “The Rector asked that I appeal to the Ekarhoro and the people of Orhoera. Students have been complaining about the high cost of rent, and some could not continue. He said last session, they lost over a hundred students. I know that prices are bound to rise in an academic environment like this as is obtainable elsewhere, but I ask that we apply gradualism for the sake of long-term development. The school is here to lift the whole Orogun,” he said.
His appeal was met with warmth and reflection from the traditional and community leaders, who commended his humility and the thoughtful approach he brought to the discussion.
The Okarhoro of Orhomuru, Chief Benjamin Orjiri, led the response, thanking Chief Efe-Nogo for his consistent concern for Orogun’s welfare. “Even though this issue affects Orhoera, what you are doing benefits the entire Orogun Kingdom. You have spoken with wisdom and respect. Let us thank you for always representing our people well,” he said.
Mr. Smart Okei, the Omo Okarhoro of Orhomuru, acknowledged the concerns raised but clarified that the situation might not be as severe as suggested. “We are grateful for the feedback, and we are ready to engage the Rector directly. However, I must say that the rent here is not as high as some students claim. Still, if we find anyone charging unreasonably, we will speak with them,” he said.
He also drew attention to another pressing concern. “Our pain is not only about rent but employment. None of our people were given jobs during the Polytechnic’s last recruitment. We want the management to remember that we, too, are part of this development,” he added.
Echoing this sentiment, the Okarhoro of Ugono, Prince Mamus Okoro, stressed the need for balance. “Students are like customers. If rent is too high, they will go elsewhere. If too low, the landlords lose. We will meet and discuss a fair position. But the Polytechnic should also extend opportunities to our children. The host community must not be left behind,” he said.
Community leader, Chief Cecilia Kaine, who accompanied the Onotu-Uku, advised that the dialogue with the Polytechnic management should be held promptly to avoid any misunderstanding. “Hold the meeting as soon as possible with the Rector, landlords, and community leaders. Let everyone speak openly and agree on the best path forward,” she said.
In his remarks, Chief O.J. Orogun JP, the Otota of the Orogun Traditional Council of Chiefs, who also accompanied Chief Efe-Nogo, emphasized moderation as a shared interest. “If rent is reasonable, more students will stay, and both landlords and traders will benefit. It should be a win-win for all,” he said.
Chief John Agabi, Secretary of the Orogun Traditional Council of Chiefs, also joined the delegation. He commended the Orhoera leadership for their openness to dialogue and stressed that sustained collaboration between the Polytechnic, landlords, and community representatives would promote peace and inclusive development across the kingdom.
Reinforcing the economic reality on the ground, Chief Orjiri observed that land speculation had contributed to higher rents in the area. “Many people from outside have bought land here only to resell. Few are building. That shortage is affecting prices. We must act wisely and ensure our community remains welcoming to students,” he explained.
Closing the meeting, Chief Do-Good Efe-Nogo thanked the leaders for their maturity and pledged to communicate their positions to the Rector. “I have heard you clearly. Each of the three communities should nominate two representatives for a joint meeting with the Rector and management team. Together, we will find a solution that strengthens both the Polytechnic and our community,” he said.
The gathering ended in a friendly atmosphere, underscoring a shared commitment to preserving the peace and cooperation that have made Orogun Kingdom a promising home for the young Federal Polytechnic and a model for community-driven development in Delta State.