The Amayanabo of Elem-Kalabari, Da Amakiri Tubo, Alhaji Mujahid Dokubo Asari, Dabaye Amakiri I, has expressed deep concern over the persistent marginalization and inequitable treatment of Kalabari employees within oil multinationals operating in the Torusarama Piri (Cawthorne Channel) region. He described these injustices as intolerable and vowed to address them decisively.
During a recent audience at his Elem Kalabari palace, Da Amakiri Tubo received a delegation of Kalabari staff from NNPC-18 Limited, operating in the OML-18 oilfield. The delegation, led by Engr. Dadabo Lawson, conveyed their grievances, highlighting issues such as prolonged casual employment—some spanning over three decades—without proper engagement or pension benefits, and the systematic exclusion from managerial positions.
In response, Da Amakiri Tubo assured the oil workers that the era of treating Kalabari people as second-class citizens is over, emphasizing his commitment to rectifying these systemic injustices, stating that under his reign, such anomalies would be fundamentally addressed.
The Amanyanabo called upon the Kalabari community to unite and actively participate in the forthcoming struggle for equitable treatment, noting that internal divisions, apathy, and a history of settling for less have significantly hindered the community’s progress.
Drawing from his personal experiences, Da Amakiri Tubo recounted the sacrifices he made, leaving a life of privilege to immerse himself in the realities of poverty, emphasizing that meaningful change requires collective sacrifice and resilience.
He urged the oil workers to maintain dedication to their duties, while simultaneously voicing and documenting instances of unfair treatment. According to him, the pursuit of improved welfare is not solely for the present workforce but is a legacy for future generations of Kalabari people.
He declared, “We will insist on better welfare. We are not begging; we will non-violently claim what rightfully belongs to us.”
Engr. Lawson, speaking on behalf of the delegation, expressed optimism that Da Amakiri Tubo’s leadership would usher in transformative changes in Kalabari land, while lamenting the longstanding injustices faced by host community members, including the lack of career advancement and inadequate employment terms.
The delegation’s visit also served to congratulate the Amanyanabo on his recent recognition and to affirm their support for his advocacy.
Da Amakiri Tubo’s stance reflects a growing movement among Niger Delta leaders to hold oil companies accountable for their treatment of local employees and the broader community.
By advocating for the rights and welfare of Kalabari oil workers, the Amanyanabo is taking a definitive step toward rectifying historical injustices and promoting sustainable development in the region.
