09 April 2014, Warri – Gbaramatu Ijaw of Warri South-West and those in Egbema, Warri North of Delta State, have condemned the recent attacks by a militia group on the oil facilities at Olero and Didi fields belonging to Chevron Nigeria Limited.
The people, who also bemoaned prevalent oil theft in the area, noted that the attacks which halted oil production on the affected facilities in the area could have negative impact on the economic well-being of the people.
Speaking under the aegis of Egbema Gbaramatu Communities Development Foundation, EGCDF, the people described the incident as criminal, adding that there were better ways of ventilating grievances than vandalising oil facilities.
At an event to commemorate the one year in office of its executive officers, acting Chairman, EGCDF, Bishop Sunny Jero, said the recent development was not in the best interest of the people as the area would be worse off if the companies close shops because of the hostile business environment.
He said: “Obviously, no development can take place in the absence of peace and security. We want support in the campaign against vandalism of Chevron’s facilities and oil theft. We call on the perpetrators of this inimical act to desist as it does not promote the general interest of our people.
“Shell Petroleum Development Company was actively operational in our swamps, but had evacuated due to unfriendly atmosphere.”
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– Vanguard