In a bold and symbolic protest, members of the Ugborodo Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State took a unique approach on Wednesday by setting up the shrine of a formidable idol called “Ogbejugbele” in front of the Chevron Escravos Gas to Liquid (EGTL) facility.
The protest was aimed at expressing their dissatisfaction with Chevron’s alleged non-implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
The placard-wielding protesters, who blocked the entrance to the facility, clarified that the presence of the idol was not meant to harm Chevron staff.
Instead, it served as a symbolic gesture to convey the anger of their ancestors towards the company.
The community members emphasised that they would remain at Chevron’s facilities until the federal government intervenes and compels the oil multinational to fulfill their obligations.
The protesters put forth 41 demands, with a primary focus on urging Chevron to implement the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the Ikpere Host Community PIA, as previously agreed upon by the National Upstream Regulatory Commission (NURPC).
Additionally, they called for increased employment opportunities for youths and individuals from Ugborodo and Itsekiri communities.
Helen Uremure, a woman leader in the community, explained that the protest was a response to Chevron’s failure to meet its corporate social responsibilities to the community over the past six decades.
She highlighted the absence of tangible benefits from Chevron’s presence, including employment opportunities and contracts.
Julie Iwetan, another community member, expressed the hardships faced by the people of Ugborodo, citing hunger and suffering.
Youth representative Ukueyinden Ajuetsi emphasized the lack of basic amenities such as potable water and electricity, along with a dearth of employment opportunities in the community.
Community leader Joseph Ireyefoju raised concerns about Chevron’s ongoing maintenance work at the facility, noting that external workers were being employed without considering the local indigenes of Ugborodo.
He argued that this disregard for local content law indicated Chevron’s lack of respect for community involvement.
Augustine Iyinbo, one of the leaders of the peaceful protest, asserted their determination not to leave until Chevron addresses the community’s grievances and fulfills their obligations.
The unique use of symbolism through the placement of the idol reflects the depth of frustration and discontent among the Ugborodo Community members regarding Chevron’s perceived neglect of their needs and rights.
Source: Daily Post