The chairmen of Okrika and Eleme Local Government Areas, Akuro Tobin and Obarilomate Ollor, have stepped in to calm tensions following a peaceful protest by youths from communities hosting the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC).
The demonstration, held at the entrance of the refinery complex, was organised by youths demanding the reconstitution of the Joint Community Relations Committee (JCRC) and greater involvement in discussions surrounding the future operations of the refinery.
According to a statement issued by the Rivers State Government, the two council chairmen visited the protest venue to engage the demonstrators and seek a peaceful resolution to the issues raised.
Addressing the protesters, Tobin described the people of Okrika as peaceful and law-abiding, stressing that the local communities were not against expressing grievances through legitimate means.
He dismissed suggestions in some quarters that the protest was intended to create unrest.
The Okrika council boss assured the youths that both local government administrations would open discussions with the management of the Port Harcourt refinery to ensure that the concerns of host communities receive proper attention.
Also speaking, Eleme council chairman, Obarilomate Ollor, commended the protesters for maintaining order throughout the demonstration.
He reiterated his commitment to supporting efforts aimed at resolving the dispute and appealed to the youths to allow activities at the refinery to continue without disruption.
Following the intervention of the two chairmen, the protesters agreed to suspend the action temporarily, citing confidence in the assurances given by the council leaders.
The youths, however, warned that they could return to the streets if their demands remain unresolved.
