PIA: Rivers host community decries non-compliance by oil firms

An Oil and gas host community in Rivers State, has lamented that despite the cluster’s significant role in boosting oil and gas production, with eight oil licenses, over 10 pipelines, and two delivery lines, the community has not benefited adequately from the resources in line with the provision of Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Speaking during […]

An Oil and gas host community in Rivers State, has lamented that despite the cluster’s significant role in boosting oil and gas production, with eight oil licenses, over 10 pipelines, and two delivery lines, the community has not benefited adequately from the resources in line with the provision of Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Speaking during a sensitization programme for Proper utilization of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), host community trust and the contribution of the pipeline surveillance in reduction of insecurity in Ekpeye, Ahoada East LGA, the National Chairman of Ekpeye Oil and Gas Pipeline Host Families Association (EOG), Comrade Chidi Dogini, urged oil companies to adhere to the provision of PIA in their operations in the area.

He said the sensitization programme on PIA is timely, as it aims to correct misconceptions and ensure Ekpeye communities benefit maximally from the Act.

He commended the federal government for creating a conducive environment for oil exploration activities and called for increased participation of Ekpeye sons and daughters in the oil business and appointment into NDDC board.

He said that through the encouragement of oil surveillance firms – Tantita Security Services Limited and Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited

– over 1,000 youths of the community have earned surveillance jobs, thereby reducing unemployment by 70%, as well as insecurity in the area.

He said the enactment of PIA has helped in protection of oil pipelines in the area and reduced any form of economic sabotage.

Also Speaking, the  Eze Ekpeye Logbo III, His Imperial Majesty, Eze Amb. Kelvin Anugwo, emphasized the need for unity among Ekpeye people to address the challenges facing the ethnic nationality.

Represented by Chief Roland Ebaledhi, Eze Anugwo urged the people to put aside differences and forge a common front.

He lamented that despite years of oil exploration, Ekpeye has little to show for it, citing poor infrastructure and environmental degradation.

The Monarch called on Ekpeye leaders to ensure that oil-related jobs and opportunities benefit local communities.

The Zonal Head of the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), Augustine Bello, urged the youths of the area against sabotaging oil and gas facilities, warning that such actions could lead to environmental destruction.

He emphasized the importance of community unity in effective engagement with the oil industry and promoting sustainable development.