Youths invade OML 25 in Belema, disrupt production activities

Kelechi Kas

Few weeks after the federal government performed the official re-opening of Oil Mining Lease, OML-25 flow station in Belema community, Akuku-Toru Local Government of Rivers State, some agitated youths have invaded the Shell Petroleum Development Company, SPDC, flow station, disrupting production activities.

King Ibinabo Kalaoriye, the Traditional ruler of Belema, one of the three host Communities of the OML, raised the alarm on Wednesday.

King Ibinabo Kalaoriye alleged that youths working for an indigenous oil company stormed OML-25 flow station on Tuesday and disrupted production activities and called on the government and security agencies to investigate and arrest those who invaded the flow station, thereby disrupting the production of over 35,000 barrels of crude oil per day.

He said: “Shell is the operator of the flow station. The government should not allow militants and criminals to create crises in the Niger Delta beginning from the crisis in Belema flow station. Belema community is ready to create enabling an environment for businesses, indigenous and foreign oil companies to operate in the area.”

The OML which was shut down in August 2017, was re-opened on 29th September by the minister of state for petroleum, Timipre Sylva who expressed happiness over the return of peace to the OML 25 and the host communities.

“This is a good signal and we should deepen it. The Niger Delta has struggled for peace. We have lost more than we have gained”, he said.

Also read: Jesus healed with herbs and leaves –PH-Based herbal doctor

He said that some people are deliberately fueling problems for business opportunities to leave Rivers State. He said that this is the right time for all stakeholders to work for more investors in the state.

Sylva said that the successful resolution of the OML 25 conflict is a right starting point to change the narrative in Rivers State.

“Let us use this opportunity to turn a new leaf. Let us use this as a model to replicate in other communities. Oil is a depleting resource. One day, we may wake up and oil companies would have left because it is no longer profitable for them. Oloibori is an example “, he said.

He charged leaders to work to resolve all the emerging challenges to enhance development.

“Let us try and close ranks as people and ensure that the problem is put to rest finally. We hope this will signal the beginning of a new chapter “, he said.