—Directs further protest to Commissioner for Oil and Gas

— Bush bar opposite Midwestern Oil & Gas should be pulled down

By Ebi Perekeme

The Delta state Government has issued strong warning on protests, meetings or negotiations by youth associations within the premises of oil prospecting companies working in Delta state.

The directive was given on Jan. 13, in Asaba, by the Honourable Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Prince Emman Amgbaduba, following the death of two security personnel attached to Midwestern Oil and Gas Company at Umusadege in Ndokwa West Local Government Area, over a disagreement between the host community and the oil company.

“No youth must approach any oil company operating in Delta state over any form of issue. Should anyone attempt to takeover the premises of any company, security operatives should take necessary actions by treating such person(s) as criminals. Protests should be directed to the office of the Honourable Commissioner for Oil and Gas, Delta state, 35, Jesus Saves Road, Off summit Road, Asaba,” Amgbaduba emphasized.

He further directed security operatives to carryout a thorough investigation on the causes of the breakdown of law and order which led to the loss of lives and properties in Umusadege over the weekend. That the ministry will also set up a committee to investigate the incident and take necessary actions. Government regrets the loss of lives and properties, he stated.

The owner of the bush bar opposite the premises of Midwestern Oil and Gas has been advised to pull the building down with immediate effect. The chairman of Ndokwa West local Givernment Area has been asked to ensure compliance with the directive.

The government also asked security operatives to ensure that the company resumes operations immediately as their shutdown is costing the state some loss. Midwestern should go and carryout an assessment of their facility and resume operations immediately, he said. 

Prince Amgbaduba reemphasized the resolve of the state government to provide a conducive environment for Oil companies within the state. No form of youth activity is expected to hold within the premises of oil companies operating in our state, be it peaceful protest or meetings, he emphasized.