The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State, Baba Azare, has called for dialogue between oil companies and youth groups to address recurring violence in host communities.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting with oil company representatives at the command’s headquarters in Uyo on Monday, Azare stressed the need for regular engagement to resolve conflicts.
‘We have been receiving reports of youths taking the law into their own hands due to various disputes with companies operating in their areas. Sometimes, they barricade roads leading to these companies. As a command, we felt it necessary to bring both parties together to discuss these issues and discourage acts of lawlessness.
‘We also urge companies to listen to community concerns, as many of these conflicts arise from communication gaps between youths and corporate management. By bridging this gap, we can ensure lasting peace and security in the state.
‘Moving forward, you must establish structured engagement channels with youths. Our police officers across the state are available to assist whenever necessary. Any issues should be reported promptly to the police, as delays often worsen the situation,’ Azare said.
During his meeting with youth groups, Azare warned against lawlessness, stressing that it would not be tolerated.
Recently, we have received multiple reports of youths blocking roads and engaging in disruptive protests across the state. Such actions violate the law and will not be condoned.
‘If there are issues within your communities, report them to your Divisional Police Officers for proper dialogue and resolution,’ he stated.
The CP assured that the command remained committed to securing energy infrastructure and urged youths to channel disputes with oil firms through the police rather than resorting to violence.
Responding on behalf of the oil companies, the Security Manager of Seplat Energy Producing Nigeria Unlimited, Justin Obo, blamed community leaders for failing to involve youths in implementing the Petroleum Industry Act, which mandates oil firms to allocate three per cent of their operating costs to host communities.
Obo encouraged youths to study the PIA, explaining that it had shifted much of the Corporate Social Responsibility burden from oil companies. He noted that many youths were unaware of its provisions.
He commended the Police Commissioner for organising the meeting and assured that oil firms would establish better communication channels to resolve communal conflicts moving forward.
