Residents of Ogu/Bolo in Rivers State have barricaded the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas (NLNG) headquarters in Port Harcourt for two days, protesting the death of a local fisherman.
The demonstrators, led by the Concerned Ogu/Bolo Residents and the deceased’s mother, claim that an NLNG vessel sank fishermen’s boats and destroyed their nets, resulting in the death of 27-year-old Precious Imabibo on January 20, 2024.
The protest has disrupted operations at the NLNG office, with employees unable to enter the premises due to the blockade.
Additionally, travellers to Bonny Island have been stranded as the protest continues, affecting transportation services at the NLNG jetty.
Samuel Diamond, a leader of the protesters, criticised NLNG for not addressing the losses suffered by the fishermen and claimed the company has ignored multiple attempts at dialogue.
He asserted that the community will maintain the blockade until NLNG addresses their grievances and negotiates a proper agreement to prevent future incidents.
Blessing Imabibo, the mother of the deceased, voiced frustration over NLNG’s lack of response since her son’s death.
She expressed distress over her son’s death and the company’s apparent indifference, stating that she has been seeking justice and support without success.
In response, NLNG’s General Manager for External Relations, Andy Odeh, acknowledged the protest and assured that efforts are underway to resolve the issue.
Odeh emphasised the company’s commitment to community safety and urged for patience while the Nigerian Police investigate.
The state police spokesperson confirmed that both the deceased’s family and NLNG have been called in for discussions.
