The leadership of Gborou Aghoro 11 community of Iduwini Kingdom in Ekeremor Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has given Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria (SPDC) seven days ultimatum to pay up their environmental and equipment rentage.

The community warned that failure to settle the environmental and equipment rentage that has accrued up to N1.02 billion, it will have no other option than to shut down the operations of the oil giant, especially the company manifold (KP 29) in their community.

In a letter dated July 4, 2022, addressed to the General Manager of SPDC and jointly signed by Doctor Bousine and Gayford Amafaye on behalf of the elders and people of the community, they accused SPDC of reneging on the peace agreement brokered by the governor of Bayelsa State who asked them to stay action pending when all issues are resolved.

“But up till now we have not seen any kobo paid into the account of the community.

Since it is obvious you are not ready to pay us our community benefits and equipment rentage totaling N1.02 billion, we have no choice but to inform you that we have mobilised our people to shut down the operations of your company most especially your manifold (KP 29) pipeline in our community”.

The community added that having been conscious of the implications of their proposed actions, they warned, “Your company will pay heavily and greatly should any body lose his life during the course of our actions.”

The community added that God did not make any mistake by giving them oil and gas and with full right to benefit from their God-given wealth. (Daily Independent)

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