By: PATRICK TITUS, Uyo
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel has advised youths not to do anything that will jeopardize genuine process towards persuading ExxonMobil to relocate its headquarters to the state, being the company’s operational base.
Udom, who picked holes over the incessant confrontation and disruption of the ExxonMobil operations by youths from the oil bearing areas of the state while agitating for relocation however told not to give the oil firm reasons not to relocate its headquarters to its operational base.
Speaking during the formal coronation of the Paramount Ruler of Ibeno and Chairman, State Council of Chiefs, HRM, Owong Effiong Archianga, assured people of the state that with him in the vanguard of the struggle the process was in top gear.
His words, ‘’I am in the forefront of the campaign for the relocation of ExxonMobil headquarters to Akwa Ibom state. I have already opened discussion with relevant stakeholders and management of the company, but the youths must understand this move and stop blocking the company’s gate. You must allow workers of the company access to the gate”.
The governor congratulated HRM Archianga on his coronation and expressed the confidence that he would continue to use his position as respected traditional ruler to foster peace and unity in his community and state as a whole.
In his remarks the Effiong Archianga promised to work for the good of Ibeno people and lead her to a state of tranquility consciousness and prosperity.
The Royal father however urged federal and state government to provide adequate security to Ibeno community considering its strategic location and contribution to the national and state economy.
“It is also our appeal that palaces of monarchs be properly guarded since such places often attract hoodlums and criminals who view monarch snot only as custodians of customs and traditions but as links to political authority.
“It is also my humble appeal that ExxonMobil and other multinational companies should review the Memorandum of Understanding with Ibeno their host community. In addition, should return Mobil Marine Department to its original place at QIT jetty, Iwuokpom in Ibeno.
“The government should consider and set up appropriate machinery to ensure that justice is done in this regard. I want to also appeal that 10% of oil derivation and excess crude fund from federation account be paid directly to Niger Delta communities that crude oil is derived including Ibeno while 13% derivation fund meant for states in the region should be reviewed upward”, he stated.
It would be recalled that for over 40 years, the oil giant, ExxonMobil started its operations in Akwa Ibom but has its corporate headquarters in Lagos thereby depriving the state its full benefit besides tax evasion. Vice President Yemi Osinbayo during his recent tour of states in the Niger Delta region has also noted ExxonMobil continued running of administrative headquarters outside it operational base as unhealthy.
