Renaissance African Energy has come under scrutiny from Elebele, a host community in Bayelsa State, over allegations of neglecting its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) obligations to residents of the Kolo Creek oil field.

Mr. Precious Okala, Chairman of the Community Development Committee (CDC) in Elebele, Ogbia Local Government Area, voiced the concerns during a recent fact-finding tour to affected host communities. He said the community is disappointed by the company’s lack of meaningful engagement since acquiring the onshore assets of Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).

“Renaissance has stuck to the same style and patterns the SPDC used in their dealings with the Kolo Creek communities,” Okala said. “Till date, we have not seen any meaningful engagement with this firm as host communities.”

‘Old Wine in a New Bottle’

Okala described the company as operating under a new name but with the same approach and staff that were previously with SPDC. “It is the same management and same staff. They had meetings with us, yet we’ve seen no implementation of the agreed outcomes,” he said.

He added that while communities have extended goodwill and patience to the company, many are growing concerned. “We are holding back from overreacting or being accused of impatience, but many communities where Renaissance operates are experiencing the same poor engagement,” he noted.

Call for Responsible Corporate Citizenship

The Elebele CDC called on Renaissance African Energy to demonstrate responsible corporate behaviour by fulfilling its CSR commitments and fostering meaningful partnerships with its host communities. Okala stopped short of declaring a breakdown in relations but warned that the growing frustration could escalate if the issues remain unaddressed.

As of the time of publication, Renaissance African Energy has not issued a formal response to the allegations raised by the Elebele community leadership.