Emu Ebendo Community in the Ndokwa West Local Government Area of Delta State on Tuesday protested against the forceful takeover of their ancestral land by Axxela Oil and Gas Company.

The community chiefs, elders, leaders, youths, and women matched in their numbers, bearing placards with various inscriptions and chanting, “We no go gree oo, Axxela leave our land.”

The people demanded the exit of the company from their community or that it should negotiate with the rightful owners of the land.

They said that they would not succumb to threats and intimidation by the company’s ambush and forcefully pitching of its caravans cordoned with armed security personnel to intimidate them.

Some of the placards read, “We have come in peace to possess our possession,” and “We are saying no to oppression, so Axxela leave our land.”

“Axxela must go, We do not need you on our land,” “Emu-Ebendo is a peaceful community, We are saying no to Axxela operations on our land.”

Addressing journalists, the community leader, Augustine Enum, the community spokesman, Josiah Agbanishi, the Chairman, Community Development Committee (CDC), Sunday Enewuzo, and the ex-CDC secretary, Azubike Eligbame, said the protest was a call for dialogue.

They said that the land was a heritage worth protecting for generations, adding that the Emu Ebendo community has nurtured a deep connection with their land.

They said that they obtained judgement from the Supreme Court as rightful owners of the land and that if Axxela wanted a parcel of land, it should come to them.

According to them, the gathering is not only a stand for the rightful protection of communal heritage but also a call for transparent dialogue, accountability, and sustainable development in the region.

The community noted, “This land is a source of cultural pride, environmental stewardship, and community identity. The current challenge posed by unauthorised entry onto this land is seen not as a hurdle but as an opportunity to reaffirm our rights and seek a balanced and respectful resolution. This protest is firmly rooted in the principles of peace and constructive engagement. It is a lawful exercise of the right to peaceful assembly and expression.

“By taking to the streets along the Kwale/Ughelli Expressway, community members are determined to raise awareness about land rights, advocate for fair treatment, and invite meaningful conversation among all stakeholders—the company involved and government authorities.”

The community spokesman, Josiah Agbanishi, said that the community remained peaceful and that the protest created an opportunity for dialogue among the stakeholders.

He said that the manner in which the Axxela Company came in forcefully was not acceptable.

“The Emu Ebendo community is inviting local government officials, corporate representatives, and civil society organisations to join in a dialogue aimed at reaching an equitable solution. The community believes that by fostering transparent communication and collaborative problem-solving, it is possible to ensure that development initiatives respect both economic progress and the preservation of cultural and environmental values,” he said.

Also, the ex-CDC Secretary, Azubike Eligbame, said the protest was to ensure the company negotiated with the rightful owners of the land in question to avoid breakdown of law and order.

Mr Eligbame stated, “This peaceful protest is a proactive step towards safeguarding the community’s legacy. This land belongs to the Emu Ebendo community. It serves as an inspiring example of how grassroots efforts can champion justice while maintaining civility and respect for the rule of law. The Emu Ebendo community is proud to stand united and optimistic that their stand will contribute to a future where development and tradition coexist harmoniously.’’

(NAN)