Communities in Okwale, Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, on Wednesday staged a peaceful protest to oppose the proposed resumption of the Bori Highland Palm Plantation Project by Siat Nigeria Limited.
Residents of Buagon, Bekpaa, Buale and Koro trooped out with placards, insisting they would not concede any additional land until all outstanding issues of ownership, compensation, and proper documentation are resolved.
Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Nwinee Gbenenee said the communities had already released more than 200 hectares out of the 315 hectares formerly occupied by the defunct Risonpalm, leaving them with no further land to surrender.
“We have given out enough. Our farmlands, our heritage, and our means of livelihood have been heavily affected already. Until there is clarity on ownership, proper compensation and documentation, there will be no more land from Okwale,” he said.
A community stakeholder, Famaa Bariledum Bariledum, emphasized that Okwale would only consider an arrangement that guarantees community shareholding, not outright land takeover by any company.
He stressed that no individual has the mandate to negotiate on behalf of Okwale, adding that all discussions must be collective and transparent.
The protest, which was peaceful, reflects growing tension over land rights and community participation in agricultural and industrial projects in the Niger Delta.
Photo and story contribution from Barry Diginee
