The Anambra State Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources has officially distanced itself from the unlawful activities of a group known as the Host Communities of Nigeria (HOSCON).
The group, led by Joy Nneka Igboka, came under scrutiny following recent revelations of illegal operations, including the defrauding of Anambra women of over N800,000, leading to arrests by the Ministry of Women and Social Welfare.
Addressing the press at the Jerome Udoji State Secretariat in Awka, Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Barrister Anthony Ifeanya, vehemently condemned the existence of HOSCON. He recalled a public service announcement sponsored by the ministry in August 2022, warning residents against extortion or misappropriation by any group.
Barrister Ifeanya clarified that host communities, as defined by the Petroleum Industrial Act, are specific towns where oil companies operate, not the entire Anambra State. Therefore, the ministry was unaware of any collection or registration activities conducted by HOSCON across the state.
The commissioner recounted a meeting with Joy Igboka and other stakeholders, during which he cautioned them against fraudulent practices, particularly their deceitful promises to secure employment for Anambra women as cooks in school feeding programs.
Calling for a thorough investigation and legal action against the perpetrators, Commissioner Ifeanya emphasized that his ministry had repeatedly warned HOSCON to desist from illegal activities, reaffirming that they are an unauthorized and unscrupulous group.
