The Police have convened peace building meeting in Kwale between Sterling Global Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited, SEEPCO, and Umuseti Ogbe Community in Delta State.

The Commissioner of Police of the Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, coordinated a strategic stakeholders’ meeting in Kwale with representatives of Sterling Global Oil Exploration and Energy Production Company Limited, SEEPCO and leaders of Umuseti Ogbe Community, after the issuance of a notice of protest by the community.

The meeting was convened to address the concerns raised by the community and to ensure that peace and public order are maintained within the area.

The Commissioner of Police was accompanied by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, the Area Commander Ozoro, the Divisional Police Officer, Ozoro Division; as well as Major Emmanuel Omo-Africa, the military officer in charge of SEEPCO security operations.

The Umuseti Ogbe Community delegation was led by the Okpara-Ukwu, Sunday Ebo Ogwe, represented by the Prime Minister of the community, Chief Okwa Akwaligbe. Also, High Chief Pedro Akpe, spoke on behalf of the community, presented the grievances and concerns of the people.

Representative SEEPCO, Col. Karmveer Singh, General Manager, Community and Security, responded to the issues raised by the community; and assured that the company remains committed to peaceful engagement and mutual understanding with the host communities.

CP Yemi Oyeniyi emphasized that the security of the country remains paramount; he added that the peace and stability of host communities are equally germane. The CP asserted the need for both parties to find a common ground through dialogue and understanding.

The Commissioner of Police further stated that the meeting was not convened to apportion blame, but to listen to the agitations and concerns of both parties with a view to achieving lasting peace. He assured that the Delta State Police Command will continue to strive towards ensuring sustained peace, security, and harmonious coexistence between the community and the oil firm.