A group of Itsekiri women, known as Voice of Warri Kingdom Women, have staged a peaceful protest in Delta State, urging Chevron Nigeria Limited to consult with the leaders of Sara community in Ugborodo before proceeding with projects in the area.
The women, led by Mrs. Vivian Eric-Mene, said Sara community is an Itsekiri community, and that Chevron should deal directly with the community leaders, who are Itsekiri’s under the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.
“We are here to set the record straight,” Mrs. Eric-Mene stated. “Chevron did not see the people in Ugborodo, they did not see our elders, they did not see our youths. Chevron should go to our community and follow due process” she added .
The group alleged that Chevron company is currently consulting with the Ijaw’s of Gbaramatu instead of the Itsekiri’s in Ugborodo , stressing that the company’s action may lead to crisis and embolden the Ijaw’s to lay claims to Sara community.
The women are also unhappy with some of their representatives who they accuse of prioritizing contracts with Chevron over the community’s interests.
The protest highlights the lack of social amenities and employment opportunities in Ugborodo, and accuses Chevron of not meeting its social corporate responsibilities.
The group is appealing to the federal and state governments to intervene and ensure that Chevron liaised with the Itsekiri leaders in Sara community.
They also appealed to the federal government to give the Itsekiri people pipeline surveillance job as they are prepared to secure federal government oil and gas infrastructures,stressing that most of their youths are jobless.
Attempt to speak with Chevron company Spokesperson to comment on the Protest proved Abortive .
