Lokichar, 26th July 2024 (Governor’s Press Service) – Governor Jeremiah Lomorukai has clarified that the Sh258 million paid by Tullow Oil to the County Government is not part of land compensation but accrued levies, rates, and taxes.
Speaking at the launch of Arid Summit Hotel in Lokichar today, the Governor assured residents that any payment meant for the public including share of oil revenue, as stipulated by law, will be protected.
He expressed optimism about the resumption of oil operations following talks with President William Ruto.
“As Governor, I am mandated to safeguard funds meant for the people. When the benefits come all community members will receive their share” he said, adding that the county has allocated the Tullow payment to development projects including in Turkana South.
The Governor hailed the opening of the Arid Summit Hotel as a significant milestone for Lokichar, stating that the town had the potential to become Turkana’s third municipality. He pledged support to local businesses, emphasizing their role in the county’s economic growth.
County Commissioner Julius Kavita announced the deployment of Deputy County Commissioners to Aroo, Suguta, and Lokiriama sub-counties. He commended the Governor for pushing for this deployment to operationalize the three administrative units.
Woman Representative Cecilia Ng’itit reaffirmed her commitment to empowering women groups citing recent launch of projects and distribution of business equipment to groups.
Leader of Minority and area MCA Samuel Lomodo lauded the new hotel as a source of employment and development.
Arid Summit Hotel proprietor Gabriel Loyomo Emuria expressed his intention to support aspiring entrepreneurs.
Other leaders who spoke include MCAs Etubon Samal (Katilu), Samuel Aliwo (Lobokat), Alphonce Loteder (Katilia), Linus Echeme (Kalapata), Abdifatah Kapua (Kaaleng/Kaikor), Vincent Ekipor (Lokichoggio), Matthew Alany (Kang’atotha), Julius Edung (Kalobeyei) as well as Dorcas Epusiye (Special-Elect) and Hellen Kaile (Special-Elect).
The Governor was accompanied by County Executives David Erukudi (Trade) and Peter Akono (Lands), Chief Officers James Illikwel (Finance), Derrick Epae (Municipalities and Urban Areas Management), John Korikel (Public Works), David Maraka (Administration and Disaster Management), Chief of Staff Peter Loyapan among other senior officers.
