Residents of Alesa community in Eleme Local Government Area on Thursday staged a peaceful protest at the Port Harcourt Refinery, demanding inclusion in discussions surrounding the proposed sale of the facility to a Chinese company.
The protesters blocked the refinery entrance and called for the convening of a town hall meeting involving community leaders and relevant stakeholders.
Speaking with journalists during the demonstration, the paramount ruler of Ekongor Autonomous Community in Alesa, Peter Olukanwi, lamented what he described as long-standing neglect of the host community, particularly in the areas of employment opportunities and corporate social responsibility.
Other protesters said their primary demand is to secure a meeting with the prospective investor to ensure the interests of the community are considered in any future arrangements.
