By Chidimma Eboigbe
The Okpoi Community in Ndokwa East local government of Delta State has accused an oil firm, Sterling Global Ltd of neglect and not carrying the community along.
The community lamented that the company does not employ the indigenes nor does it provide social amenities.
In statement issued by the youths of Okpoi Community recently in Kwale, Ndokwa West Local Government Area signed by
President- General of the Ndokwa Concerned Citizens, Mr Chibuzor Okwuobodo , it alleged that Sterling Globals indifferent attitude about the welfare of the community.
The President-General complained of oil spillages by Sterling Global destroying farm lands and fish ponds
The community also said that sources of water supply have been polluted by the oil spillage.
All efforts to make the oil company sink boreholes fell on deaf ears.
Said Mr Chibuzor Okwuobodo, President General of the Ndokwa Concerned Citizens
“They have also not made any effort to clean up the spillages in the community,”
“On the 19th of January, 2023 was the date proposed for a sit-down to discuss the way forward for the company and the community but they have failed to show up.”
In his response, Mr Steve Ogbogu, Director of Administration, Delta State Local Content Agency, who represented the Director-General pleaded the youths to remain calm and not destroy the facilities of the company.
He said that the appeal became necessary because the agency in collaboration with the Office of the Attorney- General was taking the company to court to respond to the alleged atrocities committed in its host community.
All efforts by the reporter to speak to officials of Sterling Global was unsuccessful.