A Niger Delta activist, Pat Obiene, has urged multinational oil companies operating in the region to live up to their social responsibilities by promoting peace and development in their host communities.
Obiene who gave the admonition while speaking with newsmen on issues of Niger Delta development in Port Harcourt, recently, pointed out that the oil multinationals owe it as a duty to play active role in the promotion of security  and development in their host communities.
He frowned at what he described as ‘indifference and non-compliant behaviour” of some oil companies towards the development of the Niger Delta.
“Apart from their business concerns, the companies should head towards improving on their community relations policies and implement the various agreements reached with their host communities.
“They ought to also ensure that the youths are given a top priority, so as to avert incessant conflicts that arise between them and the communities as a result of breach of corporate agreement”, he said.
Obiene also emphasized the need for peace and security in the entire country and Niger Delta in particular.
According to him, the issue of security should not be left in the hands of government alone, but should be thoroughly addressed through concerted efforts of all stakeholders.
“It is regrettable that issues of security are mostly left in the hands of government alone, and this is sadly wrong. Nigeria, and indeed, the Niger Delta region, play host to numerous multinational companies who prospect from the economic fortune in the region and the entire country.
“These companies must show concern in the security of the region and the country, and this is a major part of their corporate duties, as they can not operate when there is insecurity”, he said .

By: Corlins Walter