Oando, Aiteo Blame Host Communities For Oil Theft

Oil companies Aieto and Oando have blamed host communities for oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

The Oli Companies made the claim in Abuja, during an investigative hearing by joint committees of the House of Representatives aimed to address environmental degradation and economic sabotage in oil-producing states, chaired by Julius Pondi.

During the hearing Oando’s Team Leader, Philip Akuduro, claimed that 90% of oil theft and vandalism in Burutu, Southern Ijaw, were perpetrated by host community members, stating they “sabotaged” efforts to minimize spillages”.

However, Pondi criticized Oando’s language as “sweeping” and “unlegislative,” prompting its withdrawal.

Aieto’s Representative, Ewarezi Useh, emphasized the importance of cordial relations between oil companies and host communities, citing vested interests leading to clashes and a 2018 production drop to 700,000 barrels per day.

Both companies agreed that legislative intervention is necessary to prevent further economic sabotage and environmental harm.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Joint Committees, Julius Pondi, said the committee plans to visit Oando’s Delta State operations to verify cleanup efforts following the May 2024 oil spillage.

“This issue highlights the complex relationships between oil companies, host communities, and government agencies, underscoring the need for collaborative solutions, he said”.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji