Itsekiri Leaders Demand Investigation into Olero Oil Field Disruptions
Leaders from the Itsekiri community, which hosts the Olero oil field operated by Chevron Nigeria Limited (CNL) in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, have urged Governor Sheriff Obolewori to investigate breaches of a recent peace agreement made in Asaba. This call for action follows an alleged incursion by Ijaw youths at the Olero Flow Station, an event linked to their protests against the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) proposed delineation of wards and divisions.
The collective, representing Itsekiri communities such as Ebrohimi, Obahoro, Tebu, Gbokoda, Aja Amita, Udo, and Jakpa, expressed their shock at the occupation of oil facilities in their region by individuals they deem outsiders. During a press conference in Warri, the leaders emphasized the need for immediate measures to evict these unauthorized occupants from the flow station, asserting that the facility is a crucial national asset that should not be misappropriated.
In their address, the leaders of the seven host communities surrounding Chevron Nigeria Limited also called on the federal government, along with security agencies, to probe the handling of the INEC delineation process in light of a recent Supreme Court ruling concerning the Warri Federal Constituency. They believe that clarity on these circumstances is essential to upholding community rights and ensuring responsible governance.
Secretary of the Olero Oilfield Community, Hon. Samson Ogboduwa, speaking on behalf of the leaders, urged Chevron Nigeria Limited to stand firm against external pressures and to avoid negotiations with those not recognized as legitimate community representatives. The leaders view the takeover by individuals claiming to represent Ijaw communities of Egbema and Gbaramatu as a clear violation of their peace pact.
The leaders further clarified that the seven host communities associated with Chevron Nigeria Limited are not geographically linked to Egbema or Gbaramatu. They raised serious concerns about the involvement of Tantita, a company contracted to secure federal pipeline infrastructure, which allegedly facilitated the transport of the intruders via speedboats. This situation has raised alarms regarding its potential implications on national revenues.
Accusations were directed at Tompolo, as Itsekiri leaders alleged his actions are aimed at severing ties between the community and governmental support for infrastructure, potentially influencing contract renewals with Tantita. The leaders emphasized the urgency of investigating any officials who may have provided misleading information during the delineation process, calling for INEC to adhere to the Supreme Court judgment and relevant constitutional provisions.
Despite the tensions, the community leaders reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful coexistence and national stability. They expressed their dedication to justice and the rule of law, making it clear that they would resist any attempts to alter their territorial boundaries or undermine their rights. They urged all relevant authorities to take swift and decisive action to uphold justice and ensure peace within the Warri Federal Constituency, stressing that no individual or entity should monopolize the use of force or intimidation.
