Azura-Edo Independent Power Plant Environmental Impact ... - IFC

compensations for land taken and livelihood impacted were unfairly
distributed to the residents of this community, to the detriment of the other
communities in the LGA. Such responses arose as a result of consultations
with several groups within the communities, and therefore it can be deduced
that the dissatisfaction is throughout the two communities. It should be noted
that the NIPP is a federal project, and therefore previous benefits derived from
the NIPP power plant project relate directly to the federal government).
Idunmwowina-Urho-Nisen
Idunmwowina-Urho-Nisen is the most densely populated community in the
Project area, and consists of approximately1,500 inhabitants. As in the town of
Ihovbor-Evboeka, residents report population increase over the past few
years, particularly among youth and males. Similarly to Ihovbor-Evboeka,
this trend is associated with the NIPP power plant and associated
employment opportunities.
As with the other communities in the proposed Project area, Idunmwowina-
Urho-Nisen is populated primarily by Bini and a few people of other tribes
including Ibo, Ijaw, Isoko, Calabar and Hausa. About half of the residents
practice traditional religion.
5.4 ADMINISTRATIVE AND SOCIO-CULTURAL INSTITUTIONS
5.4.1 Government Institutions
The Federal Republic of Nigeria is made up of 36 states and one federal capital
territory and has a mixed legal system of English common law, Islamic law
and traditional law.
Edo State, which has its capital in Benin City, comprises 18 LGAs. The Project
facilities will be located in Uhunmwode LGA. Key ministries in the state that
have been consulted in reference to this Project at the state level include:
• Ministry of Environment and Public Utilities;
• Ministry of Lands, Surveys and Housing; and
• Ministry of Power and Water Resources.
5.4.2 Traditional Leadership Patterns and Representation
As in many parts of Nigeria, traditional leadership remains a strong and
respected structure in Edo State. Although the powers of traditional leaders
have declined in modern times, the rituals and respect that surround these
positions remain strong, and these leaders retain significant influence over
their people.
The study area falls within the Kingdom of Benin, which is headed by the Oba
of Benin – the traditional leader of the Bini people. Although some small
differences in traditional power structures exist among the communities, all of
AZURA EDO IPP
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DRAFT EIA REPORT