Disgruntled Groups Threaten More Kidnappings in Nigeria’s Oil-Rich Delta

Youths in Southern Bayelsa state of Nigeria who freed eight foreign oil workers they held for three days on Sunday, say they may strike again if the understanding reached with the oil company is not implemented. Gilbert da Costa in this report for VOA takes a look at the tenuous relationship between oil companies in Nigeria and host communities.

Community leaders of Bilabiri kingdom of Bayelsa state say the uncompromising demands of Peak Oil Company led to the weekend kidnapping in the delta.

Angry villagers have accused the Nigerian-owned oil company of refusing to negotiate on a range of issues including development projects and employment for local people.

The company declined to engage the community because it claimed it was operating 40 miles offshore and therefore had no obligation to the Bilabiri community.

Johnny Igoniwari, spokesman for the Bayelsa state government, says the kidnapping could have been avoided.

VOA