Warri North: Dibi, Olero Community leaders describe NDLM as faceless, say attack on pipelines, undermined their relationship with Chevron

Leaders of Dibi/Olero Field Communities in Warri North Local Government Area of Delta State, have unequivocally condemned the recent attack on pipelines in the Dibi-Olero-Abiteye trunk line and Flow Stations, describing Niger Delta Liberation Movement, NDLM, which claimed responsibility for damage as faceless.

Addressing newsmen in Warri, Delta State, Tuesday November 26, the leaders covering 14 communities, declared that action of NDLM is “not only reckless, but also detrimental to the environment, the local economy and the livelihoods of residents.” 

Dr. Jeffrey Wilkie, who read the press statement on behalf of leaders of the Chevron Host communities, averred: “We the leaders categorically state that this group is unknown to us and have no tie with the host communities.

Prince David Odeli (right) & others, during the press briefing

“The incident, which occurred in the early hours of Friday November 22, 2024, involved a faceless group, claiming to be the Niger Delta Liberation Movement (NDLM).

“The damaged pipelines are critical infrastructure for the transportation of petroleum products such as natural gas and crude oil. This sabotage has disrupted supply chains and jeopardized the livelihoods of many who rely on the environment for survival. The attack undermined the cordial relationship between Chevron (the operators of the affected facilities) and the host communities that have consistently maintained open channels for dialogue and cooperation.” 

They called on security agencies to intensify efforts in apprehending those responsible for blast of the pipelines, saying “the perpetrators are trying to hide under the guise of fighting for the interests of the host communities.”

Hon. Florence Mene (middle) & other women leaders of Olero/Dibi Field

The Itsekiri host communities’ leaders, which include; Chief Francis Omatseye, Chief Mike Odeli, Evangelist Tony Aderojo, Canaan Ajagbawa, Itse H. Orugboh, Simeon Iluwa, Dr. Jeffrey Wilkie, Dr. Eyide Michael Ugeoritsete, David Odeli, Isaac Dorsu, Billy Ofesi, Duris Orugboh, Eniyan Tonwe, Roland Ukuesan and Jerry Atiene, stressed: “We must not allow criminal elements to exploit or use false narratives to create divisions or disrupt the harmonious relationship between the host communities and Chevron that we have worked hard to build over the years. 

“It is not in the character of the host communities to destroy critical infrastructure of Chevron or any company for that matter in order to vent anger or disagreements. 

“We commend Chevron for its continuous engagements with community leaders and stakeholders in addressing concerns and fostering mutual understanding. 

“We the host communities are disassociating ourselves entirely from the perpetrators, reaffirming our commitment to peaceful coexistence and dialogue.” 

Prominent Warri Chief, Francis Omatseye and Hon. Florence Mene,  spoke in the same vein.

Photo and Video Credit: Hitler Blessing

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