Delta indigenes set up shrine in Chevron’s facility over non-implementation of PIA

Residents of Ugborodo Community in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State took a significant step on Wednesday by establishing the shrine of a formidable idol in front of the Chevron Escravos Gas to Liquid (EGTL) facility. This action was in protest against the alleged non-implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) by the company.

The protesters, holding placards, obstructed the entrance to the facility and clarified that the idol, named “Ogbejugbele,” posed no harm to Chevron staff. Instead, its placement served as a symbolic gesture to express their ancestors’ discontent with the company.

Insisting that they would not vacate Chevron’s facilities until the federal government intervened to compel the multinational oil corporation to address their concerns, the protesters presented 41 demands. These demands included the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and the Ikpere Host Community PIA, as stipulated by the National Upstream Regulatory Commission (NURPC). Additionally, they called for employment opportunities for youths and locals of Ugborodo and Itsekiri descent.

Helen Uremure, a community woman leader, conveyed their dissatisfaction, asserting that Chevron had failed to fulfill its corporate social responsibilities to Ugborodo over the past six decades. She lamented the absence of tangible benefits from Chevron’s presence, citing a lack of employment opportunities, contracts, and support for the community’s elders.

Julie Iwetan, another resident, emphasized the dire situation faced by the people of Ugborodo, citing hunger and suffering. Ukueyinden Ajuetsi, a youth, pointed out the absence of basic amenities such as potable water and electricity, underscoring the prevailing unemployment.

Community leader Joseph Ireyefoju criticized Chevron for neglecting local content laws by importing workers from outside the community for ongoing maintenance work at the facility. He asserted that this demonstrated a lack of respect for the community.

Augustine Iyinbo, one of the protest leaders, emphasized their resolve, stating, “We will not leave until they (Chevron) do the needful.”