By Barnabas Esiet.
A storm is brewing in Akwa Ibom State as the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) condemns Oriental Energy Resources Limited’s (OERL) blatant disregard for the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act 2010.
Despite repeated warnings, OERL has prioritized profits over the well-being of the people of Mbo/ Effiat communities, sparking outrage and plans for a massive protest.
In a recent statement, the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) expressed dismay over OERL’s refusal to comply with the statutory requirements in the host community.
Akwaibom State Chairman of CDHR, Comrade Ndifreke Afangide noted that the NOGICD Act 2010 aims to promote local content in the oil and gas industry, ensuring that companies like OERL prioritize local companies, goods, and services.
According to him, OERL’s actions demonstrate a clear disregard for the law and the people, prompting the CDHR to demand immediate compliance.
“We will not stand idly by while companies like OERL prioritize profits over people,” said Comrade Afangide. “We will continue to fight for the rights and interests of the people of Mbo/ Effiat.”
Plans are underway for a massive protest to the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly in Uyo and the National Assembly in Abuja, with the CDHR warning OERL of serious consequences if it fails to comply with the law.
The protest is expected to be one of the largest in recent history, with the CDHR mobilizing communities and organizations to join the call for action.
As the situation unfolds, the CDHR remains committed to monitoring the situation closely and engaging with OERL to ensure compliance with the law.
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