The Paramount Ruler of Konkor Community in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, His Highness Dr. Peter Olukanwi, has strongly blamed the management of the Port Harcourt Refinery for the recent protest by youths at the Eleme Refinery.
The traditional ruler, who also serves as Spokesman of the Nchia Council of Chiefs and Elders, who spoke to our Correspondent on Tuesday, 12 May, 2026, said the demonstration against the agreement with Chinese firms was a direct result of the company’s insincerity and failure to honour agreements reached with the host communities.
King Olukanwi disclosed that refinery officials had earlier given assurances that the community would be fully carried along in discussions with a Chinese firm expected to take over the management and operations of the facility. He alleged, however, that the management went back on its word without any explanation.
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“The company promised to involve us in its discussions with the Chinese firm, but they failed to do so. This is unacceptable,” the monarch stated.
King Olukanwi frowned at what he described as continued neglect of the host communities, warning that the people would no longer tolerate such treatment.
He stressed that despite the community generously donating the land on which the two refineries in the area were established, residents have little or nothing to show for it in terms of social amenities, employment opportunities, or basic infrastructure.
The respected traditional leader further expressed disappointment over the refinery management’s refusal to recognise the Joint Community Committee set up by the Nchia Council of Chiefs and Elders, with the full approval of the Chairman of Eleme Local Government Council.
He called on the federal government and relevant authorities to urgently intervene in the matter to prevent a breakdown of peace in the oil-rich area.
