Akwa-Ibom Community Berates Oriental Energy’s Refusal To Implement NOGICD Act

The people of Mbo local government area of Akwa-ibom state, under the edges of Mbo patriots have expressed dismay over the alleged ‘blatant and persistent’ refusals of Oriental Energy Resources Limited’s (OERL) to implement the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act 2010.

This was contained In a statement signed by its National Co-ordinator Elder Edet Bassey Okpo and made available to newmen in Uyo,the state’s capital.

The group lamented that despite numerous calls, resolutions, and warnings, The company has deliberately and recklessly ignored its obligations under the Act, prioritizing profits over the well-being and interests of the people of MBO Local Government Area.

“The NOGICD Act 2010 is a critical legislation aimed at promoting local content in the oil and gas industry, mandating companies like OERL to prioritize local companies, goods, and services in their operations. This legislation is designed to ensure that the oil and gas industry benefits the local community, promotes economic growth and development, and reduces poverty and inequality”,the statement said.

The statement added that “OERL’s actions demonstrate a clear and utter disregard for the law, the people of MBO, and their interests”. According to the statement the company’s refusal to implement the NOGICD Act 2010 is a brazen and unacceptable display of corporate arrogance, impunity, and disdain for the law and the people.

The group expressed shock over the company’s blatant refusal to obey the law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The company’s unholy behaviour undermines the trust between the company and the people and it could lead to the break down if law and order in the host community which will definitely affect the operation of the oil firm.

The group demanded the company to implement the NOGICD Act to the latter yo further deepen the relationship with the host community. The group stated that the oil communuty will continue to agitate for their lives within the ambit of the law.

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“Oriental refusal to implement the NOGICD Act 2010 is a clear indication of the company’s disdain for the people of MBO and their interests”, the statement stated.