A civil society organisation (CSO), Concerned Vanguard of Peace (CVP), has called for recognition of Alesa Community in Rivers as a host community by Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Ltd., in line with Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
In a statement on Saturday, the Coordinator of CVP, Mr Samuel Owiri, said that the call for the recognition of the community and to accord it it’s rightful status was in compliance with the House of Representatives resolution.
Owiri recalled that the House Committee on Public Petitions had considered a petitions by Nsisan-Obari Royal Palace and Alesa Council of Chiefs against the company over alleged violation of PIA 2022.
Owiri said that on June 2, the House of Representatives considered the committee’s report and consequently resolved that the company should formally recognise Alesa as a host community.
He also recalled that house resolved that oil firm should, within 30 days, establish the Alesa Host Community Development Trust/Committee in compliance with Chapter 3 of the PIA.
Owiri said that the green chambers resolved that Indorama shall pay the sum of N35 billion, being outstanding three per cent host community entitlement from August 2022 to February 2026 into the account of the Trust in line with PIA.
He said that the house further urged Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) and other relevant regulatory bodies to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the PIA, as failure to comply would attract sanctions as provided under the Act.
The coordinator said that compliance with the regulations of the house as well the provision of the PIA by the company would further ensure peace, harmony and progress of the community.
“The community consists of peace-loving people and that the company should approach them for negotiation.
“We urge Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Ltd. to demonstrate its commitment to the rule of law, corporate responsibility and peaceful coexistence by fully complying with the resolutions of the House of Representatives within the stipulated time frame.
“Implementing the resolutions would not only give effect to the provisions of the PIA, but also strengthen mutual trust, foster sustainable development and promote lasting peace between the company and the host community.
“We call on the NUPRC and other relevant regulatory agencies to diligently monitor and enforce compliance with the house’s resolutions,” he said.
According to him, respect for lawful directives and the rights of host communities is essential to ensuring stability, investor confidence and uninterrupted operations in the petroleum sector.
