Youths from Ikot Abasi Local Government Area in Akwa-Ibom State are preparing for a three-day protest against Ibom Power Company, alleging the firm has systematically excluded them from employment opportunities, subcontracts, and other elements of its social contract with the host community.

A statement issued by the Forum of Clan Youth Leaders, Ikot Abasi, claims the company has persistently disregarded its social contract obligations with the host community?a situation that has compelled the youths to consider shutting down operations at the power plant as their only recourse.

According to the Forum?s Chairman, Ambassador Patrick Udoetoh, who also serves as National President of the Edemaya Youth Association, the company?s management has deliberately sidelined Ikot Abasi youths regarding employment, empowerment programmes, subcontracts, and other aspects of its corporate social responsibility commitments.

Mr. Udoetoh stated that repeated appeals and negotiation attempts have been met with stubborn resistance from the company, prompting their decision to proceed with what he described as a ?three-day unfriendly protest.?

The youth leader has called upon several key figures to intervene before the situation deteriorates into a breakdown of law and order. These include the Chairman of Ikot Abasi Local Government Area, Honourable Ime Williamson Essien; the Member of Parliament representing Ikot Abasi, Mkpat Enin and Eastern Obolo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Honourable Uduak Odudoh; Governor Pastor Umo Eno; and relevant security agencies. (BusinessDay)

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