Host communities in Warri North Local Government Area have vehemently condemned the recent pipeline vandalism targeting the Olero-Dibi-Abiteye Fields and Flow Stations, distancing themselves from the perpetrators behind the destructive acts.
The attacks, allegedly carried out by the Niger Liberation Movement (NDLM), inflicted extensive damage on vital petroleum infrastructure, including pipelines measuring 6, 8, and 10 inches in diameter.
Leading the charge, Hon. Aduge Okorodudu, former Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area, labeled the vandals as criminals unassociated with the host communities. In a strongly worded statement, he denounced the sabotage as an assault on the environment, the local economy, and the livelihoods of thousands.
“These attacks threaten the harmonious relationship we have built over the years with Chevron,” said Hon. Okorodudu, emphasizing the need for swift action from security forces to bring the culprits to justice. He added that the NDLM’s involvement appears to be a deliberate ploy to sow discord and misrepresent the intentions of the host communities.
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Also, Hon. Dr. Jeffery Wilkie, former Secretary of the Oloro Field, condemned the vandalism as reckless and urged stakeholders to strengthen security around critical infrastructure.
Other prominent figures who echoed this sentiments includes; Barrister Richard Omare, outgoing Secretary of the Itsekiri Regional Development Committee (IRDC), he called for immediate legal action to deter future sabotage and Comrade David Odeli, Chairman of Tisun Community, who described the attacks as barbaric, warning of their long-term implications on the region’s development.
Community leaders commended Chevron for maintaining open lines of communication and engaging in peaceful resolutions despite the challenges. They reiterated their commitment to fostering a cooperative relationship with the oil company, urging all stakeholders to prioritize protecting vital infrastructure and the region’s future.
The pipeline attacks have raised concerns about the vulnerability of critical assets in the Niger Delta region. With tensions escalating, host communities are calling on federal authorities to bolster security and investigate the NDLM’s role in the sabotage.
