The Rivers State House of Assembly Committee on Public Complaint and Petition has begun mediation talks between the B-Dere community and Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited in a bid to find a lasting solution to their ongoing dispute.
The intervention follows a petition filed by the community over an oil spill that occurred on May 7, 2025, in B-Dere, Gokana Local Government Area. Residents say the spill has severely disrupted their livelihoods and poses serious health threats.
On Thursday, the committee met with representatives of both parties behind closed doors to discuss the grievances and seek common ground.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Committee Chairman, Hon. Enemi George, said the Assembly is committed to ensuring a peaceful resolution.
“Our job is to resolve conflicts between our people and others to maintain peace in our state,” he said. “When we received the petition, the Speaker directed us to immediately engage both sides, which we have now done.”
Hon. George commended the calm and cooperative conduct of both the community and the company during the discussions. He expressed optimism that all outstanding issues would be addressed at the next meeting.
He further urged the parties to maintain peace while the committee continues its work toward a mutually acceptable settlement.
