Kelechi Kas
The proposed shutdown of the operation of OML 54 belonging to Niger Delta Petroleum Resources, NDPR by host communities has been generating tension in the state.
The Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Ehie Ogerenye Edison, on Friday, called on Chiefs, Elders, Youths, Men and Women of the host communities of OML 54 to shun its proposed protest over the marginalization of the people by NDPR.
The host communities of NDPR are OGBELE, UBUMEZE, OSHUIGBOKO in Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
NDPR which began operating in the area in 2005 has been accused of reneging on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it entered with the communities.
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Edison who is the lawmaker representing Ahoada-East Constituency II in the State Assembly appealed to the host communities for calm as the Governor of the State, Nyesom Wike, has indicated interest in the matter.
Edison Said the Assembly is doing its best to ensure every injustice is looked into and addressed amicably.
Meanwhile, the host communities of OML 54 in Ahoada-East Local Government Area have agreed to put off the proposed protest aimed at shutting down NDPR facility.
The decision to call off the protest followed the intervention of the State Government.
The President General of Upata Youth Council, Comrade Alali Justice Livingstone, after a meeting with the Secretary to the State Government Office, told House of Assembly correspondent that they have confidence in the State Government in its desire to handle the matter amicably.
