Warri Riverine Communities Issue Ultimatum to ConOil Over Abandoned Wells

Tension is rising in riverine communities of Warri South Local Government Area as host communities under Oil Mining Lease 150 issued ConOil Nigeria Limited a seven-day ultimatum to address abandoned oil wells and recurring spillages.

The ultimatum followed a peaceful protest held on Monday, December 22, at Uwakeno community by residents of Uwakeno, Atu, Ewekwara, Efueye and Igheghe, who said oil pollution had destroyed aquatic life and affected their means of livelihood.

Protesters accused ConOil of neglecting more than 95 oil wells, alleging that the abandoned facilities had worsened spillages and encouraged crude oil theft.

Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, led by Esimaje Awani, also visited the affected communities and said only temporary steps had been taken to contain the situation, urging the Federal Government to compel ConOil to urgently fix its wellheads to avert further environmental damage.