The leadership of Host Communities (Oil & Gas producing), Delta State Chapter, has announced the suspension of its proposed protest, citing the state government’s commitment to engaging in strategic dialogue. The decision was made after a thorough deliberation by the HOSTCOM leadership, following a 21-day protest notice issued to the Governor on July 31st, 2024.

In a letter addressed to the Governor and signed by the State Chairman, Comrade Sunday Enujeke, and State Secretary, Joseph Lamienghan, among others, HOSTCOM highlighted its key concerns, including the provision of operational vehicles, training and capacity building, management of the 13 percent derivation by all stakeholders, and rehabilitation of HOSTCOM headquarters and ICT centre.

However, the leadership expressed satisfaction with the state government’s willingness to address these concerns through dialogue, leading to the unanimous decision to suspend the protest notice. HOSTCOM urged its members to remain peaceful and law-abiding in their pursuit of the organization’s needs.

The suspension of the protest notice is seen as a positive development, indicating a willingness by both HOSTCOM and the state government to engage in constructive dialogue. The Oborevwori administration’s commitment to addressing the concerns of HOSTCOM and its members is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that this will lead to meaningful solutions and a stronger partnership between the state government and host communities.

The decision by HOSTCOM to suspend its proposed protest demonstrates the organization’s commitment to peaceful and lawful means of resolving conflicts. It is expected that the state government will follow through on its commitment to dialogue, ensuring that the concerns of HOSTCOM and its members are addressed in a timely and satisfactory manner.