Tension is mounting in Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, as some youths have threatened to shut down oil installations over alleged exclusion from benefits accruing to host communities under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

The youths, led by community representative Clever Onyeocha, accused the community leadership of denying them direct access to benefits provided under the PIA.

Speaking in an interview, Onyeocha alleged that a portion of the benefits generated from oil operations in the area was meant for the host community but claimed that the youths had not received their share.

He further alleged that some youths were attacked while staging what he described as a peaceful protest over the matter at the weekend.

Onyeocha appealed to the Rivers State Government and other relevant authorities to intervene, warning that failure to resolve the dispute could lead to the shutdown of oil facilities in the area.

According to him, the youths are demanding employment opportunities, equitable access to benefits under the Petroleum Industry Act and improved welfare, arguing that addressing these concerns would help reduce youth restiveness and criminal activities in the community.

He also called on the authorities to investigate the allegations against the community leadership and ensure transparency in the administration of host community benefits.

When contacted, the Oba of Ogbaland declined to comment directly on the allegations.

He, however, disclosed that he had scheduled a meeting with members of the community for 11 a.m. on Tuesday to discuss the issues and seek an amicable resolution. (The Guardian)