Coalition of Ex-Niger-Delta Agitators lauds 3% commitments for host communities, demands companies compliance

Press Statement

By Isah Hussein

A civil society group, the Coalition of Oil Producing States/Ex-Agitators in Niger Delta (COPS/EAND) has written to express gratitude to the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) – Engr. Gbenga Komolafe for his commendable effort and sacrifices in ensuring that the Oil Companies operating in the Niger Delta Communities comply with their 3% statutory requirement to the host communities.

This is as it is contained in a press statement released by the group on Thursday and was signed by Hon. Afe Samson, the group’s
Coordinator and secretary general .

The group in the statement, commended Engr. Gbenga Komolafe and the entire Management of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for its recognition of the statutory provision and commitment of Oil Companies to the
host communities as stipulated in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

Part’s of the statement reads; “The NUPRC’s directive was a welcome development that would ensure that the oil-bearing communities benefit from the resources in their land and waters”.

The COPS/EA also urged the oil companies, particularly those that have not complied, to adhere to the NUPRC’s directive and pay their dues to the host communities without delay or excuses.

“The 3% statutory commitment was a right and not a privilege for the host communities, and that any attempt to deny or shortchange them would be met with stiff resistance”.

However, the group expressed its readiness to work with the NUPRC and the host communities (HOSTCOM) to monitor and enforce compliance by the Oil Companies.
For the Coalition;

signed
Hon. Afe Samson
Cordinator