By Omolara Akintoye
Residents of Rumuji community in Emohua Local Government Area, Rivers State, staged an early morning protest today, blocking the entrance to Greenville LNG, a major liquefied natural gas company situated in their community.
The demonstration was sparked by grievances over a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the company and the community, which the residents claim is unfavourable and fails to address their needs.
The protesters, who gathered at the company’s gates as early as 6:00 AM today, expressed dissatisfaction over what they described as lack of meaningful engagement and benefits from the company’s operations.
They accused Greenville LNG of neglecting its corporate social responsibilities and failing to provide adequate compensation or development projects for the host community.
The blockade has caused significant traffic disruption along the East-West Road, a major highway leading to the company’s site.
Motorists and commuters have been stranded for hours, with long queues of vehicles stretching for kilometres. Security personnel have been deployed to the scene to maintain order, but tensions remain high as the protesters vow to continue their action until their demands are met.
Community leaders speaking at the protest emphasized that the current MoU does not reflect the interests of the people and called for an immediate review of the agreement. They also demanded better infrastructure, employment opportunities, and improved living conditions for residents.
Meanwhile, Greenville LNG is yet to issue an official statement regarding the protest. However, sources within the company indicate that management is currently in emergency talks to address the situation.
This protest highlights the growing tensions between host communities and multinational companies in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, with many residents accusing firms of exploiting resources without adequately compensating or developing the areas where they operate.
More details to follow as situation unfolds.
Reporting live from Rumuji, Emohua lga, Rivers State.
