By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police (CP), Baba Azare, has cautioned youths in oil-bearing communities against taking the law into their own hands by blocking roads leading to oil companies during disputes.
Azare issued the warning during a meeting with youth presidents and secretaries from the 31 local government areas of the state, held at his office in Uyo on Monday.
The commissioner attributed the frequent misunderstandings between host communities and oil companies to a breakdown in communication, emphasizing that development cannot thrive without peace.
Urging the youth leaders to collaborate with the police in resolving disputes, Azare stressed that the Command would not tolerate any group disrupting the peace of the state.
“No one should obstruct the free flow of operations of these companies. Without development, we cannot grow the economy. If you have any problem, inform us immediately so we can find common ground to resolve issues amicably,” Azare said.
He further noted, “The factories sited in your communities are meant for your empowerment and the development of both your community and the state.”
Azare encouraged the youths to exhaust all avenues for dialogue rather than resorting to violence, adding, “We are ready to partner with you. Going forward, we expect peace to reign in all your communities.”
Later, in a separate meeting with representatives of oil companies, the commissioner emphasized that dialogue was essential to creating an enabling environment for oil companies to operate smoothly.
Responding, Justin Obo, Security Manager at Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited, blamed community leaders for failing to adequately involve youths, as stipulated in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). The Act mandates oil firms to allocate 3 percent of their operational costs to the development of host communities.
Obo advised the youths to familiarize themselves with the provisions of the PIA, noting that much of the burden of Corporate Social Responsibility has shifted from the oil companies to the communities. He added that many youths had not been sufficiently informed about the Act’s provisions.
He thanked the Police Commissioner for facilitating the meeting and assured that, moving forward, oil companies would initiate better communication channels to address communal issues.
