Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has inaugurated a tripartite committee comprising the State Government, Sterling Petrochemical and Fertilizer Limited, and Eastern Obolo communities to resolve lingering disputes between the company and its host communities.

The committee has been mandated to submit its report within three months.

The conflict between the communities and the company stems from allegations that SPFL violated a 2022 agreement by encroaching on additional land beyond the initially agreed boundaries. The communities further claimed that the company’s activities had blocked their waterways and channels, making movement difficult and causing significant hardship.

Inaugurating the committee at Government House, Uyo, on Wednesday, Governor Eno tasked members with determining the exact land area occupied by the company, working with SPFL to secure a relocation site for the displaced Ikonta and Obianga communities, and engaging with the affected communities to ensure a smooth transition.

“You are to work to establish the actual land size of the land, liaise with the company to get a place for the displaced communities, and liaise with the communities to facilitate smooth relocation,” the governor said.

He further directed the committee to ensure a peaceful and lasting resolution that guarantees harmonious coexistence between the host communities and SPFL.

Eno also acknowledged receipt of a letter from SPFL, committing to training 50 youths in various disciplines to prepare them for employment opportunities within the company. While emphasizing the project’s importance to the state’s socio-economic development, he stressed the need to balance investor interests with the well-being of the host communities.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace and security, the governor urged the committee to maintain neutrality in its deliberations for the benefit of all stakeholders.

Government representatives on the committee include Rt. Hon. Nse Essien, Rt. Hon. Udo Kierian Akpan, Mr. Ubong Udo Uquang, Mr. Abraham Odion, the Commissioner for Labour and Manpower Planning, the Commissioner for Internal Security, the State Commissioner of Police, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Manpower Planning.

Community representatives are Rt. Hon. Samuel Samuel Nteogwuijah, Hon. Selinah Ukpatu, Prof. Gamaliel Harry, Chief Humphrey Oyet, and Barr. Sam Ukoima.

SPFL is represented by Mr. Amit Gosh, Mr. Davinder Mor, and Mr. Jude Bassey.