OML 150 Communities Issue Ultimatum to Conoil Over Hiring Dispute

Host communities under the OML 150 Communities’ Consultative Forum have issued a warning to Conoil Producing PLC, threatening to block a new drilling rig recently moved into its operational area in Warri Federal Constituency. The dispute stems from allegations that the company engaged about 300 workers without involving the affected communities.

The Forum’s Secretary, Oritseweyinmi Emmanuel Agbonekuya Aginejuone, stated that residents feel sidelined and accused the company of operating with tactics that undermine unity among the communities. He insisted that the host areas will not tolerate being shut out of decisions affecting local employment and development.

According to him, the communities have been staging peaceful protests and intend to sustain the action until Conoil addresses their grievances. He warned that if no meaningful engagement occurs by Thursday, the communities are prepared to compel the company to withdraw the rig.

The Forum maintained that only genuine dialogue and respect for host communities’ rights will prevent further confrontation, urging Conoil to revisit its approach and engage directly with local stakeholders.