Host communities in Warri North Local Government Area have condemned the recent pipeline attacks in the Olero-Dibi-Abiteye Fields and Flow Stations, distancing themselves from those behind the sabotage. The attacks, attributed to a group claiming affiliation with the Niger Liberation Movement (NDLM), caused significant damage to vital petroleum infrastructure, including pipelines of varying sizes.
Hon. Aduge Okorodudu, a former Chairman of Warri North Local Government Area, led the condemnation, labeling the perpetrators as criminals and asserting they have no connection to the host communities.
Speaking on November 22, Hon. Okorodudu criticized the act as reckless and damaging to the environment, local economy, and the livelihoods of residents. He also emphasized the negative impact on the long-standing relationship between the host communities and Chevron, the operator of the affected facilities.
Other leaders from Warri North also voiced strong disapproval. Hon. Dr. Jeffery Wilkie, former Secretary of the Oloro Field, called the attack reckless and harmful, stressing the need to protect critical infrastructure. Barrister Richard Omare, outgoing Secretary of the Itsekiri Regional Development Committee (IRDC), demanded swift legal action. He noted that damaging infrastructure is not a characteristic of the host communities.
Comrade David Odeli, Chairman of Tisun Community, condemned the sabotage as a barbaric act, describing it as a betrayal of the region’s future. “The destruction of Chevron pipelines is an unforgivable act of criminality that threatens lives, devastates the environment, and cripples economic progress. Justice must be swift and decisive to prevent further acts of this nature,” he said.
The leaders commended Chevron for its ongoing dialogue with community stakeholders and its efforts to address concerns. They reiterated their commitment to peaceful coexistence and open communication.
In a united front, the host communities disassociated themselves from the attackers and called for the prompt identification and prosecution of those responsible.
