Edo communities bemoan neglect, serve quit notice to firm 

Four Communities, Oben, Iguelaba, Ikobi and Obazogbe-nugu in Orhionmwon Local Government Area of Edo State yesterday lamented the level of neglect by oil producing companies and issued Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc, a 7-day ultimatum to commence negotiations for the payment of compensations and sponsor a credible joint assessment and evaluation or vacate their communities.

Addressing newsmen at the community town hall, West Uyigue Ogiemwonyi said Oben is reported to have the largest gas reserve in West Africa with Seplat Petroleum Development Company Plc as the operator of the field but lamented that this has not translated to better life for the people and the community.

He claimed the agreement the community reached with the company was not being implemented. Ogiemwonyi lamented that the environment has been degraded and devastated as a result of oil and gas exploration and exploitation activities especially gas flaring, which has affected their crops, led to acidic rains and extreme weather conditions.

This he said, led to engaging an environmental consultant to carry out evaluation with the report since been handed over to the company for its study, consideration and possibly open for negotiations for payment of compensation.

He said consequent upon the refusal of the company to pay compensation to them, they should vacate the communities at the end of seven days or face their wrath.