The Speaker of Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Udeme Otong, has commended the Ibom Community Development Stakeholders Forum (ICDSF) for their patriotic efforts in uncovering the truth about oil and gas exploration in the state.
This commendation came during a courtesy visit on him by the ICDSF team in his office at the Assembly Complex, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo yesterday.
The Speaker, praised their bravery and commitment of the leadership and members of the group towards the growth and development of the state
Speaker Otong, also informed the forum that Governor Umo Eno’s administration is eager to partner with critical stakeholders who prioritize the state’s interest to bring more development to the state.
He promised to cooperate with the leadership and members of the organization in the realization of their set objectives in the state.
The ICDSF delegation, led by Mr. John Etim, expressed conc
erns over the marginalization of eligible communities under the Petroleum Industrial Act (PIA) Law, which they described as fraudulent.
He disclosed that a total of seventeen (17) functional oil companies operate in the State, with some, engaging in illegal drilling activities without the knowledge of the State Government.
The group further proposed the establishment of an Oil and Gas Commission to capture Oil bearing local government areas in the state.
He noted with regret that Akwa Ibom State loses billions of Naira daily due to international oil companies exploring offshore without accounting for it.
Highlight of the visit was the presentation of essential documents to support their claims.
Speaker Otong, promised to go through the the documents and discuss the way forward with stakeholders.
The Paramount Ruler of Itu Local Government Area, His Royal Majesty, Edidem Akpan Inyang was among the delegation on the courtesy visit to the Speaker.
Press Unit,
Office of the Speaker AKHA
