Residents of Omagwa and Ipo communities in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State have staged a protest by barricading the entrance of the Port Harcourt International Airport.
The demonstration, which began as early as 7 am on Wednesday, has disrupted flight operations, leaving air travelers stranded. The blockade has also caused a gridlock stretching from the Airport Road to neighboring communities.
The protesters expressed grievances over the lack of power supply and other essential amenities in their communities. Despite hosting the international airport and enduring daily noise pollution, they claimed to receive no compensation. Also, they highlighted the absence of quality schools in the area.
One of the demonstrators, identified as Oki, accused airport authorities of neglect, emphasizing their demand for compensation for the persistent noise pollution. He expressed frustration, stating,
“We in Omagwa and Ipo have been without electricity for over 10 years. We deserve compensation for the noise pollution emanating from the airport every day. We are weary of this situation, which is why we have taken to the streets.”
