Prominent Niger Delta leader and former chairman of Warri North Local Government, Mr. Godwin Ebosa, has strongly condemned the recent attacks on Chevron Nigeria Limited’s facility at Olero/Dibi/Abiteye in Delta State, labeling the acts as sabotage aimed at undermining the nation’s economy.
Ebosa criticized the attacks as premeditated actions intended to disrupt the progress Nigeria is making in overcoming its current economic recession. He emphasized that such violence is unnecessary and could set the region back significantly, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators to serve as a deterrent to others.
The reasons cited by the vandals, particularly their claims of insufficient job opportunities from Chevron, were dismissed by Ebosa as flimsy excuses that do not justify the destruction of company property. He urged for a thorough investigation into the vandalism, suggesting that the true motives behind the attack are likely more complex than what has been publicly presented.
Ebosa also commended the community leaders in the area, including Chief Sunny Omatseye, Mr. Tony Aderojo, Mr. David Odeli, and Mr. Mike Odeli, for their ongoing efforts to maintain peaceful relations between the oil company and the local communities. He questioned why the attackers did not approach these leaders with their grievances instead of resorting to violence.
He expressed concern that a small group of irresponsible individuals has taken it upon themselves to act as leaders while engaging in destructive behaviors rather than seeking lawful solutions. Ebosa called on the youth, especially in oil-producing regions, to reject vandalism and instead work to protect the properties of multinational companies. He encouraged them to report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities and to engage in dialogue through established channels.
Ebosa reiterated the importance of peaceful conflict resolution, stating, “Amicable resolution of crises is essential for a harmonious society.” He described the attack on Chevron’s crude flow line as a deeply regrettable event, asserting that it poses a threat to national interests and the local economy.
“The attack on the Olero/Dibi Flow line is not only despicable but also unpatriotic. It undermines the very foundations of our economy, from which our state benefits significantly through derivation funds for development,” he stated.
He called upon security agencies to act swiftly to investigate the incident, identify the attackers, and ensure they are brought to justice. He emphasized that collective action is necessary to combat such barbaric acts, urging the community to unite against this threat.
Ebosa reminded the people of the region that crude oil is vital to the nation’s economy, stating, “We cannot afford to remain passive. We must stand together against this common enemy.”
