An Evaluation of the Community Relations of Oil Companies in the Flood Ravaged Oil Producing Communities in Delta State

Abstract

This study evaluates community relations of oil producing companies in flood ravaged host communities in Delta State. The study adopted the stakeholder theory of corporate social responsibility. Responses obtained from 174 critical stakeholders among the flood victims of the host communities using questionnaire and interview data collection methods were evaluated. Findings indicate that relief materials were not provided for the flood victims even when it is evident that the community is a host community to an oil producing company. This suggests that the oil company has not put community relations to proper use in dealing with stakeholders which has consequently led to serious crisis leading to public protest by members of the host community. The study concludes that if oil companies are able to make effective use of their community relations there will be no conflict between the oil companies and their host communities. The study therefore recommends that oil companies should recognize community relations as important if they want to enjoy a peaceful and conducive working relationship with their host communities.