Article

On 25-26 February 2026, hoodlums attacked Sterling Global Oil Company in Assa, Imo State, damaging equipment worth millions of naira. This marks the third significant attack on the company, following incidents in 2023 and December 2025.

The attackers, operating from nearby bushes and referring to themselves as 'army generals,' are demanding benefits from oil operations. Shell Petroleum Development Company and other firms also face threats.

Some companies have halted operations due to safety concerns. Community leaders have gone into hiding, while local development projects are stalled pending improved security.