Residents of Omagwa and Ipo communities in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State staged a protest on Wednesday, barricading the entrance of the Port Harcourt International Airport. The demonstration was fueled by grievances over the lack of electricity, neglect of their communities, and persistent noise pollution.
The protesters, numbering over a hundred, initiated the blockade as early as 7 am, leading to significant traffic congestion stretching from the Airport Road to surrounding areas. They voiced their frustration at the prolonged absence of power supply, despite hosting the international airport, and enduring daily disturbances from noise pollution.
Dressed in black attire, the demonstrators called for compensation for the disruption caused by the airport’s operations. Oki, one of the protesters, emphasized their demand for acknowledgment of their plight, stating, “We in Omagwa and Ipo haven’t had light for over 10 years. We want compensation for the noise pollution coming from the airport every day. We are tired. That is why we are here.”
While arrivals at the airport remained unaffected, departing flights were unable to proceed due to the obstruction preventing passengers from entering the airport premises. The disruption persisted until approximately 8 am, when the gates were finally opened.
In response to the protest, Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, Sergeant Awuse, addressed the women leading the demonstration. He pledged to personally engage with the airport management team to address the grievances and foster development in their community. Additionally, he requested the airport manager to assemble a team from the airport management to accompany him for a visit to the community on Friday, aiming to initiate dialogue and address the concerns raised by the protesters.
