Residents of Torusarama-piri, an island community of Kalabari-speaking people in Rivers State, have raised their voices in protest over what they describe as years of neglect and exclusion from Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a video shared by Arise News, the community, which is rich in oil and gas resources, says it has been denied basic civic rights such as voter registration and polling units. This means that during elections, residents cannot cast their votes unless they travel far to other communities. Many are left out entirely, unable to participate in choosing their leaders.
Speaking on behalf of his people, the Amayanbo of Torusarama-piri, Alhaji Mujahid Asari Dokubu, expressed anger and disappointment.
“We didn’t vote, we were not registered to vote. There are no schools, no health centers, nothing here. So, as it were, we’re not part of Nigeria. The government has no responsibility towards us,” he said.
He stressed that despite being the source of the famous “Bonny Light” crude oil, which contributes greatly to Nigeria’s wealth, his people have been abandoned. According to him, while other regions have enjoyed the dividends of democracy since 1999, Torusarama-piri and surrounding communities have only faced poverty, environmental pollution, and underdevelopment.
The community leaders revealed that several petitions have been written to both state and federal authorities, demanding justice and inclusion. They are calling for voter registration centers, polling units, and basic social amenities like schools, hospitals, and clean water.
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