Itsekiri Natives Protest and Shut Down 28,000 Barrels Per Day Oil Production Facility in Ogidigben, Delta State
In a significant development from Delta State, a group of Itsekiri natives has forcibly shut down a major oil production facility in Ogidigben, located in Warri. The facility, which has a capacity to produce 28,000 barrels of oil per day, was brought to a standstill on Wednesday, following widespread protests by hundreds of local residents.
A video footage, which was aired by TVC News, captured the scale of the protest, showing large crowds of Ogidigben residents gathered at the entrance of the oil facility. The protesters, who are believed to be part of the Itsekiri ethnic group, expressed their dissatisfaction with various issues, including alleged neglect and unfulfilled promises by oil companies operating in the region.
The protestors have been vocal about their grievances, which reportedly include environmental degradation, lack of adequate infrastructure, and insufficient benefits for the host communities despite the extensive oil extraction activities in the area. The Itsekiri natives have long complained about the lack of development and the negative environmental impacts of oil extraction on their land and livelihoods.
As the situation continues to develop, there has been no immediate response from the oil company or government authorities. The protest has raised concerns over the ongoing tensions between oil-producing communities and oil companies operating in the Niger Delta region, where similar protests have often led to disruptions in oil production and distribution.
Further details on the protest and the specific demands of the Itsekiri community are expected to emerge as authorities and stakeholders assess the situation.
Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing development.
By Eghosa-Osawe Jr.