Rumuekpe community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Renaissance, formerly Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), to address a series of grievances raised by the people, or face renewed protests.
The ultimatum followed a massive protest staged by over 1,000 residents at the Rumuekpe junction along the East-West Road, where they accused the company of years of neglect and marginalization despite decades of oil exploration in their community.
Speaking to our Correspondent during the protest, the Paramount Ruler of Rumuekpe Clan, HRH Eze Christian Amadi Evekwuru, lamented that the community has suffered long-term marginalization by Shell and its successor, Renaissance Africa.
“I have met with the youth, security agencies, Renaissance representatives, and even Shell officials. We gave them 48 hours to address our concerns. If nothing is done, the protests will resume.”
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Eze Evekwuru also raised concerns about what he described as unauthorized dealings between Renaissance and a community member, Hyacinth Josiah, whom he accused of undermining community interests.
“Renaissance claimed they would not enter any host community without consulting the traditional leadership. However, we were shocked to discover that they had already engaged people led by Hyacinth Josiah, who has been terrorizing the community and denying the youths and elders access to benefits.”
He added that Shell had consistently bypassed legitimate leadership, resulting in unfulfilled promises and a lack of basic infrastructure in the community.
“There are no roads, no electricity. Oil is being taken from our land daily, yet we gain nothing. Renaissance must first come and engage the community properly before any operations can continue.”
Youth President of Rumuekpe, Ovunda Umeka, echoed similar sentiments. He warned that Renaissance would not be allowed to operate in the community without first engaging with recognized leaders and addressing their demands.
“There’s crisis in the community. Hoodlums are collecting money meant for everyone. We’re saying Shell or Renaissance should not step into Rumuekpe again until our issues are resolved,” he said. “We want peace, not conflict. But the marginalization is too much.”
Dr. Fyne Dumnemene, Executive Director of Youth and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria), called on Renaissance to take its corporate social responsibility seriously.
“If the company truly has a human face, it must begin by addressing the urgent needs of Rumuekpe. The community’s frustration stems from neglect, and it is a threat to public peace.”
The community insists that until Renaissance officially engages with the rightful leadership and outlines clear commitments to development, it should halt all operations in Rumuekpe.
