The ongoing community engagement in the Jomoro Municipality is beginning to yield positive results, as communities that previously had a reputation for resisting and opposing the Petroleum Hub concept have undergone a transformative change and are now fully supportive of the project.
On Day Two of the exercise, the PHDC and Lands Commission team visited four communities to inform them about the reduction of land size from 20,000 acres to 12,356 acres (5,000 hectares) and other key issues related to the project.
A crucial aspect of this engagement is the presentation of the gazette letter from the Lands Commission to the local chiefs, which officially announces government’s intention to acquire the designated lands.
Led by the Western Regional Lands Commissioner, Nana Asante Boateng, this process is conducted in full view of the public to ensure transparency and openness.
Nana Asante Boateng conveyed the purpose of the visit and guided the communities through the land acquisition process, assuring them of the Lands Commission’s commitment to protecting their interests by guaranteeing fair, adequate, and prompt compensation.
During the team’s first stop at Takinta on Day Two, there were poignant moments as community members, contrary to widespread belief, declared their complete support for the petroleum hub project.
They rejected the reputation imposed on them as opponents of the project, stating that while they may have questions regarding certain issues, they always believed in the project as a key driver of growth.
As one of the communities significantly affected by the land reduction, Nana Abizi IV, the Chief of Takinta, expressed deep regret and criticised some locals who became prominent opponents of the hub project.
He urged the PHDC not to let the actions of a few individuals reflect on the majority of community members who have historically supported the project wholeheartedly.
The Deputy CEO of Operations and Technical at PHDC, Onasis Rosely, stated that now that the decision on the land size for the project has been made, it is vital for all Jomoro residents to come on board to ensure the project’s success.
Onasis Rosely encouraged them to focus on the socio-economic benefits the project is likely to create and to work towards gaining the full confidence of the community members.
From Takinta, the team travelled to New Kabenlasuazo, where the chief, Nana Kabenla Tendele, warmly welcomed them and urged the PHDC and Lands Commission to disregard detractors and concentrate on transforming the area.
He expressed disappointment upon discovering that one of the lead campaigners against the project has a business interest in the community, quickly clarifying that this individual’s actions do not represent the views of the entire community.
Similar positive feedback was received from Bonyere and Ezinlibo, where local assemblymen led discussions encouraging their constituents to consider future generations and allow the project to be established in their communities, as it will transform Jomoro into a modernised city.
On Day 3 of the engagement, the team will visit Nawule, Nduomsuazo, Allowule, and Tikobo 1.
