The Secretary of the OML 150 Communities’ Consultative Forum in Delta State, Mr. Oritseweyinmi Emmanuel, has cautioned the management of Conoil Producing not to mistake the peaceful disposition of the Forum’s Chairman, Dr. Monday Agbeyi, for weakness.
In a press statement issued over the weekend, Mr. Emmanuel expressed concern over reports that some officials of the indigenous oil and gas company are allegedly bypassing the recognized leadership of the Forum, led by Dr. Agbeyi.
According to him, instead of engaging directly with the legitimate representatives of the OML 150 host communities, certain Conoil officials have been holding consultations with unauthorized individuals, particularly in preparation for the arrival of a new rig to the company’s OML 150 operational base.
He revealed that several letters have already been sent to Conoil’s management, urging them to address the matter and respect the established leadership structure. Mr. Emmanuel further warned that the Forum will not hesitate to use all legitimate and peaceful means to resist any attempt to undermine its authority.
“The OML 150 Communities’ Consultative Forum is calling on Conoil Producing to end this divide-and-rule approach. This strategy is dangerous, as it risks inciting conflict in the host communities—not just for Conoil, but for other oil operators in the region as well. We must work together in good faith for peace and sustainable development in our communities,” he state.
