The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) has issued a warning that it will no longer tolerate multinational oil companies’ (MOCs’) continual gas-flaring and arrogant behavior in the Niger Delta region.
This came after the House of Representatives vowed to collect the over $9 billion in gas flaring fines the federal government slapped on negligent domestic and international oil and gas businesses.
Dr. Alaye Theophilus, who replaced Deacon Peter Igbifa as President of the Council, revealed this in Port Harcourt.
Theophilus claimed in a statement that gas flaring and venting have long been a major source of worry for the local population in terms of the environment, economy, health, and society.
He stated that his role as the nation’s ninth president is to advance, protect, and demand justice for everyone.
“We are in a time where government policies are anti-Ijaw and undercut our collective contribution to national sustainable development,” the IYC President declared.
“In my capacity as Council President, I will push for the control of resources other than oil and gas. Our integrity has been weakened for too long. When our abundant waterways are neglected and ship docks are visible in Lagos—the best seaport in West Africa—it is appalling.
We are constantly told that our surroundings are not secure enough. As President of the Council, I must put an end to this and insist that our seaports be activated.
“We will no longer tolerate frequent gas flare-ups and careless international oil companies (IOC ) procedures that have cost us dearly as a society.
Under my leadership, we will work to keep the Council and the Ijaw Nation stable.
Theophilus urged the authorities to look into industries where the area has a competitive advantage to lessen the unrelenting suffering of the populace.
Igbifa, the outgoing president, had earlier urged Theophilus to remain focused on his mission to steer the Council in the correct direction and to avoid taking any unnecessary detours.
