By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
A civil society group, Coalition for Equity in Resource Justice (CERJ), has insisted Oando Plc, a leading oil and gas company, pays the sum of 8 billion Naira it is owing host Niger Delta Contractors.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Comrade Tari Efemena, made available to newsmen, the group decried what it described as a “deliberate delay and denial of justice” to Indigenous Contractors whose lands, waters, and livelihoods have supported oil operations in thebl Niger Delta region for decades.
“For far too long, oil companies have profited from the resources of the Niger Delta while neglecting their basic responsibilities to the people.”
“Oando Plc must urgently pay the 8 billion Naira it is owing host Indigenous Contractors. These funds represent compensation, commitments, and obligations that cannot be swept under the rug,” Comrade Efemena emphasized.
CERJ also lamented that while multinational corporations continue to expand profits, local communities are left to suffer the consequences of pollution, underdevelopment, and broken promises.
“We are not begging we are demanding justice. The people of the Niger Delta deserve more than lip service. Oando must lead by example and pay what is due. We will not remain silent while corporate entities enrich themselves at the expense of the region’s dignity.”
Furthermore, the group hasvurged regulatory bodies such as the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and the Ministry of Petroleum Resources to step in and ensure compliance to agreements and accountability.
“This is not just about money; it is about justice, dignity, and restoring trust. Any further delay will be seen as economic sabotage and a betrayal of the Nigerian people.”
Meanwhile, the concerned civil society organization, has given a One week ultimatum to Oando Plc to settle the longstanding issue.
Failure to do so will leave us with no option but to
mobilize and peacefully picket their offices in Lagos, Abuja, and London, it warned.
End
n.”
