The proposed shutdown of the operation of OML 54 belonging to Niger
Delta Petroleum Resources, NDPR by host communities has been
generating tension in the state.
The Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon.
Ehie Ogerenye Edison, called on Chiefs, Elders, Youths, Men and Women
of the host communities of OML 54 to shun its proposed protest over
the marginalization of the people by NDPR.
The host communities of NDPR are OGBELE, UBUMEZE, OSHUIGBOKO in Ahoada
East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
NDPR which began operating in the area in 2005 has been accused of
renegading on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it entered with
the communities.
Edison who is the lawmaker representing Ahoada-East Constituency II in
the State Assembly appealed to the host communities for calm as the
Governor of the State, Nyesom Wike, has indicated interest in the
matter.
Edison Said the Assembly is doing its best to ensure every injustice
is looked into and addressed amicably.
Meanwhile, the host communities of OML 54 in Ahoada-East Local
Government Area have agreed to put off the proposed protest aimed at
shutting down NDPR facility.
The decision to call off the protest followed the intervention of the
State Government.
The President General of Upata Youth Council, Comrade Alali Justice
Livingstone, after a meeting with the Secretary to the State
Government Office, told House of Assembly correspondent that they have
confidence in the State Government in its desire to handle the matter
amicably.