Rivers
Group Berates NLNG, PH Refinery over Marginalization Of Wakrike
Wakrike National Congress (WNC), a socio-cultural organization of the Okrika people, in Rivers State, has berated the managements of the Nigerian liquified Natural Gas (NLNG) and the Port Harcourt Refinery over alleged continuous marginalization of the Okrika people.
President of the body, Engr. Davies Solomon, said this in his address at the one year anniversary of the organization in Port Harcourt.
Solomon, whose address was read by Emmanuel Kaldick Jamabo, said despite being a major stakeholder in the NLNG and Port Harcourt Refinery projects, the Okrika has nothing to show for it, adding that NLNG and Port Harcourt Refinery have not deemed it necessary to provide social amenities in Okrika communities.
He particularly called on the two companies to ensure constant power supply to Okrika as is done in Bonny, while youths from the area should be given employment in the two companies.
The WNC President also called for the change in the name of the Port Harcourt Refinery to Okrika/Eleme Refinery, and that of Onne Port to Onne/Ikpokiri Port.
He further called for the siting of a higher institution in Okrika, establishment of a development bank for the Okrikans, establishment of Radio and Television stations in Okrika, and the Wakrike chamber of commerce.
Other demands include the Wakrike industrial park and the Wakrike historical society.
Solomon said time has come for the people to prepare themselves for the age of Artificial intelligence and for them to invest massively in the agricultural sector.
He also stressed the need for the people to extend their hands of fellowship to their neighbours in order to ensure peaceful coexistence with their neighbours.
Earlier, the Amanyanabo of Obumuton Chiri Kingdom in Port Harcourt Local Government Area, HRM King Darick Achesomie, had called for unity among Okrikans, noting that Okrika can only achieve its heart’s desires when the people are united and speak with one voice.
Urging Okrikans to use the celebration to foster unity and understanding among themselves, irrespective of differences, he said, “As we engage in discussions today, let us remember the responsibility we hold for future generations. Our decisions today will shape the world they inherit.
“We must work hand-in-hand, irrespective of our differences, to foster understanding and collaboration among our communities.
“Together we can harness our collective wisdom to propel our society forward”.
He said the congress offers the opportunity to ignite ideas, provide solutions and reinforce the commitment to progress.
“The congress is not merely a platform for dialogue, it is an opportunity to ignite ideas, provide solutions and reinforce our commitment to progress.
“I encourage each of you to share your insights openly and fearlessly. Let us embrace innovation while remaining grounded in our traditions”, he said.
King Achesomie also stressed the need for the people to advocate for quality education, quality health care and economic empowerment through the support of local businesses.
“Also, give attention to the protection of the environment by encouraging waste reduction and protect natural resources for future generations”, he urged.
John Bibor, Michael Abraham