Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Ogbele community in Ahoada East Local Government Area of River State has peacefully occupied the entrance gates of the Niger Delta Petroleum Resources, over continuous neglect of the landlords and host communities by the oil firm.
The community who blocked the company’s gate with canopies and chairs, were seen singing and dancing singing, dancing and cooking in front of the oil company, while threatening to permanently remain there until their demanda are met.
Leader of the protest and Paramount Ruler of Ogbele community, Eze Prince Gwogwo, lamented that NDPR failed to give employment opportunities to the landlords and the host communities.
Eze Gwogwo also demanded that the Community Liaison Officer position in the company should be given to a member of the host community.
He also cautioned the management of NDPR not to trespass out from the already existing land where they occupy, without a prior consent of the community.
“NDPR has been playing games with us. We are saying that NDPR should come to our community and ask us openly what we want, it shouldn’t be done privately.
“We need 10percent employment slot, we need hospitals, motorable roads. We have been writing series of letters but to no avail. We have even gone to Lagos, but they (NDPR) refused to grant us audience and referred us back here.
“We will be here even if it will take one month we will not leave here until the Managing Director of NDPR comes to address us.”
Similarly, Ogbele Community Development Committee Chairman, Mr. Oguzor Christian, said the community was not being carried along in the setting up of the Board of Trustees recognized by NDPR.
“Christian accused NDPR of using divide and rule tactics to further divide the community.”
Meanwhile, the Area Commander, Ahoada Division, Nigeria Police Force, A Mohammad, who addressed the protesters, has promised to resolve the conflict between the community and the company.
“Give me the opportunity to resolve this problem once and for all. For the interest of the community, the company and the state,” the Policeman said.
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