NNPC faces fresh threats from Bayelsa communities over security contracts

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Eight oil-producing host communities in Bayelsa State’s coastal region have issued a seven-day ultimatum to NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NEPL) to resolve a lingering dispute over security vessel contracts. The communities, comprising Koluama 1 & 2, Ezetu 1 & 2, Foropa, Fish town, Ekeni, and Sangana, threaten to shut down operations at Oil Mining Leases 86 and 88 if their grievances are not addressed.

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The KEFFES Host Communities Development Trust accused NEPL and its contractors of sidelining local stakeholders in the award of key security contracts. “The vessels are not merely assets but are regarded as monuments of peace,” the letter stated, emphasising the critical economic and social role the contracts play in sustaining over 250 direct and 400 indirect beneficiaries in the area.

The communities cited several unresolved issues, including the alleged failure of the new contractors to attend meetings and delayed payments for local contractors. “We are indeed exhausted of the back-and-forth movement of things when it comes to the KEFFES communities’ security vessel contract,” the letter read.

The KEFFES Trust warned that the escalating tensions could result in vandalism, sabotage, or civil unrest if not urgently addressed. The letter declared that NEPL would be held accountable should operations be disrupted and issued a seven-day ultimatum to organise a meeting between the trust’s board of trustees and the new contractors.

If the deadline lapses, the communities vowed to demand the immediate evacuation of all contractors and vessels from OMLs 86 and 88 within 14 days or risk a total shutdown of operations. The letter was copied to several government authorities, including the Office of the National Security Adviser and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission

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