Title: Youths from Akwa Ibom State Teargassed During Protest Over Oil Derivation Share
Subtitle: Ibom Youths Congress demands fair distribution of 13% oil derivation to the state
Date: [Date]
Location: [City], Akwa Ibom State
On Tuesday, a group of youths from Akwa Ibom State protesting for their fair share of five percent out of the total 13 percent oil derivation to the state were forcefully dispersed with teargas. The protest, organized by the Ibom Youths Congress, saw hundreds of youths dressed in white and black attire, chanting war songs as they marched through the major streets of the state metropolis towards the Government House, where they intended to present their demands to Governor Pastor Umo Eno.
The police officers stationed near the Government House at the Uyo Police Area Command responded to the protest by launching several tear gas canisters, resulting in an uproar among the demonstrators. Prior to the dispersal, Comrade Victor Bassey James, Secretary of the Niger Delta Movement (NDM), expressed disappointment in the lack of empowerment for the youths and demanded that they receive their fair share of five percent from the 13 percent oil derivation.
In a bid to ensure peace and calm, CP Durosinmi, the Commander of the 2 Brigade of the Nigeria Army, along with his NSCDC counterpart and the Commissioner in Charge of Internal Security in the state, appealed for restraint among the protesters. They urged the disgruntled youths to return home, assuring them that Governor Uno Eno would address their grievances at the appropriate time.
Mr Odiko MacDon, the Police Public Relations Officer, shed light on the teargas incident, explaining that it was necessary to prevent the situation from escalating and to prevent any potential invasion of the Government House by hoodlums. According to MacDon, the protesters were cautioned by the Commissioner of Police, the Commander of the 2 Brigade, and other sister agencies about the importance of maintaining peace, but they insisted on accessing the Government House. Subsequently, a commensurate force was used to disperse them, leading to a peaceful resolution of the demonstration.
The situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing concerns regarding the distribution of oil derivation funds to the various states. Akwa Ibom youths are determined to ensure their voices are heard and that they receive their rightful share. As the government addresses these concerns, it is vital to maintain open communication and peaceful dialogue to prevent further tensions and unrest.
The Ibom Youths Congress has vowed to continue advocating for their interests and will await Governor Uno Eno’s response.
