Akwa Ibom
Akwa Ibom Community Accuse Sterling Petrochemical Of Wreaking Environmental Havoc, Forced Evictions
Akwa Ibom Community Accuse Sterling Petrochemical Of Wreaking Environmental Havoc, Forced Evictions
Akwa Ibom community accuse Sterling Petrochemical of wreaking environmental havoc, forced evictions. Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – The communities of Obianga and Ikonta in Eastern Obolo, Akwa Ibom State, have raised serious allegations against Sterling Petrochemical and Fertilizer Limited (SPFL), accusing the company of illegal actions that threaten their ancestral lands, livelihoods, and the environment.
Addressing the media, the spokesperson for the community and the village head of Emereoke, Chief Joshua Mathew Ayagwung, said the disputes stem from the acquisition of 1,736 hectares of land by the Akwa Ibom State Government in 2022, intended for SPFL’s operations.
The land was taken from several communities in Eastern Obolo, including Ikonta and Obianga.
The media briefing was attended by the Paramount Ruler of Eastern Obolo, (Rt. Hon). Uboon Harry J. Etetor, village heads of the affected communities, representatives from the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), women’s groups, and the chairman of SPFL communities, Sir G. I. Harry, among others.
Ayagun stated that the acquisition of their lands had been accompanied by unlawful activities, including the forceful closure of creeks, planned displacement of entire villages, and severe environmental degradation.
Illegal Closure of Vital Waterways. A major point of contention is the closure of the Okolo Obianga/Ikonta and Okolo Otuita creeks, which are essential for the survival of the host communities. These waterways are federal navigable routes, serving as the only access points to and from the villages.
The statement asserts that despite a court order from the Akwa Ibom State High Court, the creeks were shut down by SPFL, allegedly backed by military personnel and militants.
“The closure has trapped our people, preventing access to markets, schools, hospitals, and other essential services,” stated the community leader. The blockade has already led to a cholera outbreak, which has claimed the lives of at least 20 people in one of the affected communities.
Forceful Displacement Plans. Further allegations center around a supposed plan by SPFL to forcibly relocate the people of Ikonta and Obianga, a move the community asserts they never agreed to. According to the communities, no clause in the tripartite agreement signed with the Akwa Ibom State Government and SPFL in 2022 supports such relocation.
“We have credible information that the company intends to drive us out of our ancestral homes,” the chief warned. “We will resist any attempts to displace us and will take legal action to protect our land.”
The forced displacement would exacerbate the crisis, as residents claim the company has already been poisoning the environment with hazardous substances, causing irreparable damage to the ecosystem, which is central to their livelihoods. Environmental Impact and Breach of Legal Framework
The residents have also accused SPFL of violating multiple environmental laws. There are claims that SPFL has failed to present an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or an environmental management plan to address the damage caused by its operations.
Experts have reported that local fishing, the primary livelihood for the communities, has suffered, and the surrounding ecosystem has been significantly harmed.
Additionally, the company’s activities are said to be inconsistent with global sustainable development goals. There have been reports of severe pollution, including acidic rainfall and surface water contamination.
Violation of Local Content and Employment Laws. The communities have further criticized SPFL for violating Nigeria’s Local Content Law. Despite the law requiring certain jobs to be reserved for local workers, SPFL is accused of employing over 1,000 foreign nationals, primarily from India, for both skilled and unskilled jobs.
The company is also said to be awarding contracts to itself through a network of companies, bypassing local contractors.
The influx of foreign workers, many allegedly undocumented, has raised serious national security concerns, the residents argue, with calls for investigations by the relevant authorities.
Failure to Meet Corporate Social Responsibility. The residents also accuse SPFL of neglecting its social responsibilities to the host communities. Despite the company profiting from the land, the communities claim SPFL has failed to provide basic services like clean drinking water and infrastructure.
“The people of Emereoke are suffering from a cholera outbreak, and SPFL has done nothing to help,” said a local spokesperson. “This is a company that profits from our land but refuses to contribute to our well-being.”
Akwa Ibom
Demands for Immediate Action. In response to these grievances, the affected communities have made several demands, including the reopening of the blocked waterways to restore access for local residents.
They also call for an end to plans to forcibly relocate the people of Ikonta and Obianga, as well as compensation for the environmental damage, estimated at $100 million, and for trespassing on ancestral lands.
The residents have given SPFL a 14-day ultimatum to address their demands. Failure to comply, they warn, will result in “peaceful protests and all lawful means” to assert their rights.
Calls for Government Intervention. The communities have called on the Akwa Ibom State Government, the Federal Government, and international organizations to intervene and ensure that SPFL operates in compliance with Nigerian laws and international best practices.
The communities also request that relevant government agencies investigate the alleged illegal activities, particularly the presence of undocumented foreign workers and the use of armed groups to intimidate locals.
Workers’ Day: Akwa Ibom Gov Announces N160m Support Fund, Gifts Labour Leaders Cars
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pst. Umo Eno has announced a support fund of N160 million for Akwa Ibom State Workers.
The Governor also gifted the Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC) Comrade Kingsley Akpan and the State Chairperson of the Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Kingsley Ekong brand new Cars in commemoration of the day.
The Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi who represented the Governor at the event, said it was a commitment by Gov Eno to supporting Akwa Ibom State Workers as their dedication, resilience and productivity have significantly boosted productivity in the state’s overall development.
She described Akwa Ibom as one of the most peaceful states in the country, attributing the steady influx of organisations and groups holding meetings in the state to its safety and stability, noting that recent commendations came in yesterday as the Inspector General of Police, Tinju Disu and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sunday Kelvin further underscored the Government’s investments in security and peaceful coexistence.
“Just yesterday the IGP of Police and Chief Air Staff applauded the Gov for the peaceful and decent nature of the state.
“ And this speaks to the commitment and investment made by the Governor of the state.”
Eyakenyi, however, urged the Trade Union Congress to acknowledge the administration’s efforts in maintaining security and empowering youths, stressing that such initiatives had significantly contributed to the calm atmosphere in the state.
She disclosed that the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and TUC had earlier paid a courtesy visit to the Governor to present key issues affecting workers, noting that the Governor promptly constituted a committee to address the concerns within one month.
She also paid tribute to the outgoing NLC Chairman, Comrade Sunny James, praising his patriotism and commitment to the growth of the state as she expressed optimism that he would continue to contribute to development even after his tenure.
Eyakenyi announced further that the state government was rewarding Comrade Akpan and Mr. Ekong, with official vehicles to support their work. She reiterated the government’s commitment to worker’s welfare, including the payment of gratuities, revealing that about N82 billion had been paid out of over N100 billion.
She added that the government had also provided housing for civil servants through a transparent raffle system and sustained training programmes to enhance manpower development, pledging that worker’s welfare would remain a top priority of the administration.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Udo Kierian, in his tone setting, said May Day remained a significant occasion set aside globally to celebrate hardworking employees across both public and private sectors, noting that the state workforce had every reason to celebrate in view of the government’s favourable policies.
He stated that since assuming office in May 2023, the governor had carried workers along in governance, adding that the administration’s vision and mission had been effectively interpreted through various ministries and government offices.
Also, the NLC State Chairperson, Comrade Sunny James, commended the administration of Governor Eno for efforts in promoting workers, and sued for a more speedy process in implementation.
He also appreciated the Governor for paying gratuities till date.
“We have a leader who loves workers and is gradually clearing gratuities,” he said.
James described his tenure which began in April of 2019 as “not an easy one” noting that despite challenges, his leadership has recorded significant strides in representing workers’ interest.
He urged workers to remain committed and united as he bows out honourably in few months.
He further noted that even in moments of disagreement, Governor Eno had consistently demonstrated a willingness to find common ground, resolving issues amicably.
Akwa Ibom Governor
In their various solidarity messages, Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Elise Peter, Speaker, House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, Chief Judge represented by Justice Effiong Effiong, TUC Chairman Mr. Akpan, State Chairperson Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Akpan, commended the Governor for his commitment to worker’s welfare, noting that despite occasional disagreements, the governor had always sought for ways of bettering the lots for workers.
They also acknowledged his administration’s efforts in promoting workers, mobilising contractors back to sites, and gradually clearing outstanding gratuities, while expressing optimism that the existing cooperation between labour and government would further enhance development and industrial harmony in the state.
NAF Helicopter Landing Inspires Youths, Strengthens Bonds In Akwa Ibom Community
A routine flight turned into an unforgettable moment in Nsit Ibom as Nigeria marked Workers’ Day. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) demonstrated its people-focused service during a routine liaison mission within the Niger Delta area.
While en route on the mission, the crew executed a precautionary landing at a primary school football field in Nsit Ibom LGA, in line with standard safety procedures.
The unexpected arrival of the helicopter transformed the quiet community space into a scene of excitement, drawing children and youths from Afaha Abia and Ikot Obio Asanga villages, many witnessing a military helicopter up close for the first time. What began as a routine mission quickly evolved into a meaningful moment of connection and inspiration.
Eereporter.com
Seizing the opportunity, NAF personnel engaged warmly with the young audience, sharing insights into career pathways and emphasizing the values of discipline, service, and patriotism. The interaction ignited hope and aspiration among the youths, with several expressing a desire to join the Service.
NAF
Seamless coordination between Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Army personnel, alongside the warm reception by community leaders, further reinforced the strong bond between the military and the people.
Following necessary aviation procedures, the helicopter safely departed and has since returned to base, leaving behind more than just a story, it sparked hope, pride, and stands as a powerful testament to the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring commitment to national defence, community engagement, and inspiring the next generation.
Akwa Ibom Airport Commences International Operations With Maiden Flight To Ghana
Today, the people of Akwa Ibom State rolled out the drums, once again, in celebration of a milestone achievement with the completion of the international terminal and the commencement of international operations at the Victor Attah International Airport.
Eereporter.com
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, was on ground, and officially declared the airport ready for international operations.
Ibom Air
The State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, expressed satisfaction with the development, saying, “I am indeed proud to be an Akwa Ibomite.”
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