the town has several oil wells that are run by shell petroleum development company (spdc) and italy eni agip. the presence of crude oil pipelines across the region and frequent crude oil spills have been largely responsible for soil damage. this has led to large-scale frustrations with the oil companies, and has resulted in skirmishes and kidnappings for ransom in some neighboring communities. shell petroleum development company (spdc) responds by sponsoring projects such as clean water supply in idheze irri town.