By Joel God’sgift Fiafiawei
“Home is where the heart is” perfectly describes what Polobubo community means to its residents. A true home isn’t just a physical location; it’s a place of comfort, love, and a profound sense of belonging.
Polobubo, formerly known as Tsekelewu, is a rural community situated in Egbema Kingdom within Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria. Located in the western part of the Niger Delta region, near the Niger River and the Atlantic Ocean, this community is renowned for its abundant oil resources. With one of the highest populations in Egbema Kingdom, Polobubo stands out.
The story of Polobubo (Tsekelewu) Community dates back to its founding by Minyen Obololo Oloduwa, who migrated from Opuama Community to establish this thriving region. Minyen, the first son of Pa Obololo and a direct descendant of Pa Oloduwa, the Founder of Opuama Community, holds a special place in Polobubo’s history as its founder.
The local economy of Polobubo (Tsekelewu) is closely linked to the oil and gas industry, with fishing and farming also significant economic activities for residents.
In addition to its economic vitality, Polobubo (Tsekelewu) boasts a rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional music, dance, and festivals. The community primarily consists of Ijaw people. HRM G. O. E. Tiemo (JP), the late king of Egbema Kingdom, hailed from Polobubo Community. The community is also home to over ten villages that have grown from its roots.
While Polobubo (Tsekelewu) has a history of idol worship, it underwent a transformation in the 1930s when missionaries introduced Christianity. Today, the community thrives in its service to God, with over fourteen churches located throughout its quarters. Many Gospel Ministers from Polobubo are leading the charge for Christianity both locally and nationwide.
Polobubo Community places a strong emphasis on education and human development, with several schools, including Minyen Primary School, founded to nurture this vision.
This community has also been a breeding ground for talented graduates who have achieved success in various fields, including national politics, governance, the oil sector, medicine, law, and more.
Over the years, Polobubo (Tsekelewu) Community has faced challenges, including environmental pollution and social issues linked to oil extraction activities. These challenges have fueled community activism and engagement. Additionally, flooding has emerged as a significant threat to the community in recent times.
Other ongoing challenges include the lack of motorable roads, access to electricity, clean drinking water, undredged canals affecting transportation, inadequate healthcare facilities, rural-to-urban migration due to unemployment, and more.
Nevertheless, Polobubo (Tsekelewu) Community is graced with natural beauty and a unique ecosystem that set it apart. It’s known for its hospitality, security, peace, strong sense of community, and high moral standards among its residents. It’s a place that truly feels like home.
●Joel God’sgift Fiafiawei is an intern with GbaramatuVoice.
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