Traditional Chiefs sue for peace between Chevron and oil community

The Gbaramatu Traditional Council in Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta has appealed to Benekruku community to sheathe its sword against Chevron Nigeria Limited.

Mr Godspower Gbenekama, acting secretary of the council, Don Sylvester, secretary, Elder’s Council, and Mr Samuel Okirika among others made the appeal on Wednesday in Warri.

Gbenekama, who spoke on behalf of the people appealed to members of Benekruku to lay down their arms despite the expiration of the ultimatum given to the oil giant.

It would be recalled that the Benekruku community host to Abiteye Oil Field had issued a-seven-day ultimatum to the Chevron to halt operation until their demands were met

Some of their demands included: non compliance with local content, dispute over land ownership, unresolved spill issues, employments among others.

Gbenekama urged the community to give Chevron opportunity for a dialogue.

The acting scribe also advised the Chevron to immediately initiate a dialogue process with their host in order to resolve issues raised by leaders of the community.

“We are appealing that a conducive environment be created for Chevron to operate so that there can be negotiations.

“Chevron is also working frantically to hold an round-table discussions with leaders of the community on the issues,” he said.

The community recently ordered the oil company to stop all operations in the area.

Chevron has suffered production problem in recent times following the destruction to its oil and gas infrastructure by the violent militant group, Niger Delta Avengers, NDA.