A group of Rivers State students studying abroad has raised alarm over what they described as Oando Plc’s continued neglect of the oil-rich Omoku community in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area.
Operating under the umbrella of Omoku Students in Diaspora (OSID), the scholars called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene and ensure that Oando fulfills its corporate social responsibilities (CSR) to their host communities.
In a joint statement released in Port Harcourt on Thursday, signed by one of their leaders, Chima Elenya, the students declared their full support for the Omoku Development Council (ODC), saying the oil giant’s failure to invest in the region that significantly contributes to Nigeria’s oil wealth is no longer acceptable.
They alleged that Oando’s prolonged absence from developmental conversations has led to a breakdown of infrastructure, environmental degradation, and worsening economic conditions for residents.
“The Omoku Students in Diaspora remain steadfast in their commitment to justice, equity, and sustainable development for their homeland,” Elenya stated.
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The group said they have now expanded their campaign to the national level in hopes of catching President Tinubu’s attention. They urged the federal government to prevail on Oando to immediately address the plight of its host communities.
Beyond calling for accountability, the students encouraged Omoku indigenes around the world to rally in solidarity, citing the Ogoni struggle as a model for unified resistance and demand for justice.
They stressed that Omoku deserves not just basic infrastructure but also access to quality healthcare, better schools, job opportunities, and environmental cleanup—particularly in light of its immense contribution to Nigeria’s oil production.
The students also criticised the silence of Oando’s leadership since the company underwent a major acquisition and management transition. They described the lack of engagement with Omoku communities as both disappointing and damaging to the region’s future.
According to the group, they will continue to work with key stakeholders, civil society groups, and the international community to ensure that Omoku is no longer left behind in conversations about corporate responsibility and regional development.
