By Wilbet Ijeoma
Adonishaka community in Ebedei, located within the Ukwuani Local Government Area of Delta State, has erupted in protest against Platform Petroleum Limited after prolonged impasse over staff welfare between the oil host community and the oil company. The protest, which broke out in the early hours of today 4th February 2026 was sparked by the recent dismissal of one Mr. Evans Ossai, a driver from the host community , alongside grievances concerning staff welfare and poor working conditions.
The community’s dissatisfaction with Platform Petroleum has been simmering for some time. Previously, the Adonishaka community had expressed concerns over marginalization by oil companies operating on their land, highlighting issues such as environmental degradation and inadequate social benefits. The dismissal of Evans Ossai appears to have been the tipping point, galvanizing the community into action.
The protestors comprising community chiefs, women and youths, are demanding the reinstatement of Evans Ossai, whose dismissal they believe was unjust. Ossai’s role within the company was seen as vital, and his termination has been perceived as a direct affront to the community’s interests. Sources had that Evans alongside a few other staff embarked on a peaceful protest over poor remuneration and staff welfare which led to their dismissal.
The host community has raised concerns about the welfare of employees working for Platform Petroleum, and argued that the company has failed to provide adequate support and benefits to its workers, leading to dissatisfaction and unrest among the staff.
Protestors who resisted intimidation from combined forces of soldiers and Police, have highlighted the substandard working conditions faced by employees, by roving casket and displaying placards with compelling inscriptions to ventilate their grievances. These conditions are said to include poor remuneration and working condition, inadequate safety measures, insufficient equipment, and a lack of basic amenities, which have collectively contributed to a decline in morale and productivity.
The protestors, comprising representatives from various segments of the community, including chiefs, women, youths, and rights activists, have articulated several demands. They are calling for:
– The unconditional reinstatement of Evans Ossai.
– Immediate improvements in staff welfare, including better healthcare and financial benefits.
– Enhanced working conditions to ensure safety and comfort for all employees.
Platform Petroleum has previously stated its commitment to empowering communities through social impact initiatives and engaging with local populations to address their needs, but as at thus press time, no official statement was made by the management of Platform on the sack of Mr. Evans Ossai.
The protest by the Adonishaka community underscores the ongoing tensions between local communities and oil companies in Delta State. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Platform Petroleum will respond to the community’s demands and whether a resolution can be reached that satisfies all parties involved. The protest serves as a reminder of the critical need for oil companies to engage meaningfully and constructively with host communities, ensuring that their operations contribute positively to local development and welfare.
