News in Brief:
– Okomu Oil Palm Plc in Nigeria is on the verge of closure due to repeated attacks by militants on their plantation, resulting in employee deaths.
– The company’s management blames the government for inaction despite significant tax contributions and urges increased security measures to prevent a shutdown, which would have a negative economic impact.
A major palm oil plantation in southern Nigeria, Okomu Oil Palm Plc, is facing the prospect of closure due to escalating insecurity, according to the company’s management. The company has recently experienced attacks by armed militants, including the murder of three employees.
The company’s managing director, Graham Hefer, expressed frustration over the lack of government action. He disclosed that the company pays billions of naira in taxes annually yet receives no security support for its operations. He has therefore called for the establishment of a military base within the plantation and increased police presence in the surrounding area.
Responding, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, revealed that additional officers have been deployed to the area, while vowing to apprehend the attackers. He stated that initial investigations suggest the gunmen originated from a neighboring state.
Additionally, the Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade acknowledged the incidents and confirmed plans to collaborate with Okomu Oil Palm Plc on enhancing security measures within the plantation. The Brigade Commander has previously issued warnings to criminal elements operating in the area.
According to analysts, a potential shutdown of Okomu Oil Palm Plc would have significant economic consequences, as the company is a major employer in the region.
