The people of Chokota, Ikwerengwo, and Umuebulu communities in Rivers State, collectively known as Mbam Ator communities, have issued a stern warning to the state government and international oil companies (IOCs) operating in the area. They are threatening to shut down oil production unless their deplorable road network is addressed.
According to Eze Innocent Amaefule Agbam JP, the Otuka 1 of Ikwerengwo community, the deplorable state of the roads has become a major source of concern for the communities. “We are tired of being neglected by the government and the IOCs,” he lamented. “Our roads are a death trap, and our people are suffering. Pregnant women are being forced to deliver prematurely due to the shocks and unpleasant health conditions caused by traveling on these bad roads.”
The communities, which host major flow stations and numerous oil wells,. have been plagued by poor road infrastructure despite their significant contributions to the Nigerian economy. The traditional ruler also expressed disappointment that despite the communities’ significant contributions to the state’s economy, their votes are not being recognized.
“We produce over 20,000 votes in every election, but our efforts are not being rewarded,” he said. “We are calling on the relevant authorities to take immediate action to address our concerns. If not, we will be forced to boycott the forthcoming election.”
The Mbam Ator communities have vowed to take drastic measures, including shutting down oil production, if their demands are not met. “We will not sit back and watch our people continue to suffer,” said a youth leader from one of the communities. “We will take laws into our own hands if the government and the IOCs refuse to listen to us.”
The threat by the communities has sparked concerns among stakeholders, with many calling for urgent action to address the situation. The Rivers State Government and the IOCs operating in the area have been urged to take immediate action to restore the hope of the people and prevent any disruptions to oil production.
“The government and the IOCs must take the demands of the Mbam Ator communities seriously,” said a civil society leader. “The communities have been patient for too long, and it’s time for the government and the IOCs to take action.”
The Mbam Ator communities have also called on the Rivers State Government to fulfill its promise to construct the Igwuruta-Chokota road, which has been in a deplorable state for years.
“We are not asking for too much,” said Eze Agbam. “We are asking for basic infrastructure that will improve the lives of our people. We hope that the government and the IOCs will listen to our demands and take action before it’s too late.”
The situation in the Mbam Ator communities is a reflection of the broader challenges facing many oil-producing communities in Nigeria. For years, these communities have been plagued by poor infrastructure, environmental degradation, and neglect by the government and oil companies.
The Mbam Ator communities are hoping that their threat to shut down oil production will prompt the government and the IOCs to take action and address their concerns. Only time will tell if their demands will be m