Operations at Sterling Global’s dredging site in Obienga, Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, were brought to a halt on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, following a mass protest by residents of five fishing settlements who accused the company of neglect and violation of a General Memorandum of Understanding (GMoU).
The protesting communities — Otuoyo, Oboloiluk, Utoon Obolo 1, Utoon Obolo 2, and one other — comprised men, women, youths, and children, who barricaded the company’s site demanding a halt to all activities until their grievances were addressed.
According to reports obtained by @ConnectAndoni, the protest followed multiple failed attempts by the communities to engage the company through formal letters and dialogue, with no positive response from Sterling Global.
At the heart of the protest was the community’s claim that Sterling Global’s dredging activities in the only fishing river in the area had severely impacted their livelihood. Protesters alleged that the company’s operations had disrupted fishing activities, damaged nets, and polluted the river, making it impossible for them to sustain their primary source of income.
“The company told us to remove our nets if we don’t want them destroyed — without compensation or any alternative means of survival,” one of the protesters told @ConnectAndoni. “That is not only insensitive but a complete breach of our agreement.”
The communities accused Sterling Global of violating the terms of the initial GMoU, which they said stipulated the employment of 100 percent of semi-skilled and 40 percent of skilled workers from the host communities. “They have refused to honour the terms. That’s why we shut down their operations,” the protester added.
The protest, which was planned to last a week, prompted a swift response from the company on the first day. Sterling Global’s base manager, along with an Indian national identified as Sam Je, met with the community representatives to negotiate a truce.
By 6 p.m. Wednesday, an agreement was reached, and the protest was suspended. According to sources, Sterling Global is expected to send higher-level representatives by Monday, May 19, to formally sign and begin implementation of the GMoU with the community’s leadership, including the Community Liaison Officer, Mr. Bright Center.
“If the company fails to follow through,” a community member warned, “the protest will resume immediately.”
The development marks yet another case in the Niger Delta where oil and gas-related operations are clashing with local communities over environmental degradation and unmet obligations.
