Eket community rejects ExxonMobil’s N2.5bn oil spill compensation

The Eket Federal Constituency Vanguard has rejected the N2.5 billion oil spill compensation offered by ExxonMobil to affected Eket communities.

The oil spill, recorded on Nov. 9, 2012, caused up to 200,000 barrels of oil, spilled on the Atlantic coast.

In a communiqué made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday after its town hall meeting in Eket, the Vanguard demanded immediate release of the N26.5 billion earlier promised by ExxonMobil.

The Vanguard condemned alleged lies, insults and abuses on the community by ExxonMobil in the course of the oil spill.

The community, subsequently, gave ExxonMobil seven days ultimatum to meet to all its demands or risk an indefinite protest against the company’s operations.

The communiqué also demanded immediate employment of 100 graduates by the company from the host communities of Eket, Esit Eket, Ibeno and Onna.

“Henceforth, oil spills would be paid in dollars and communities should be allowed to select their projects and consultants.

“The compensation should be made to reach the communities and individuals to make up for their losses,” the communiqué said.

When NAN contacted Mr Akaninyene Esiere, the Public Affairs Manager of Mobil at the Qua Iboe Terminal in Ibeno, he said that he had noted the inquiry, promising to respond later. (NAN)