The Delta State government has officially acknowledged the discoloration of the river in Ukwu-Nzu community, located in Aniocha North Local Government Area. This confirmation follows reports detailing the pollution, which prompted concerns from the community regarding the altered appearance of their once pristine water source.
Suspicions initially pointed towards coal mining activities conducted by Mosra Energy Limited as the likely cause of the contamination, although the company vehemently denied any involvement.
In response to the community’s distress, the state’s Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Jamani Ejiro, announced that water samples have been procured for laboratory analysis. Assuring residents of Ukwu-Nzu, Ejiro emphasized the necessity of conducting a comprehensive examination to determine the underlying cause of the river’s unusual coloration. He underscored the importance of objective assessment, pledging not to influence the outcome of the investigation.
While expressing appreciation for the government’s intervention, members of the Ukwu-Nzu community disclosed their decision to enlist the expertise of an independent analyst to conduct parallel water assessments. Mr. Kaikenechukwu Okolie and Ikechukwu Ezedunor, both natives of the community, maintained that the river remained uncontaminated even after the completion of erosion control measures by NEWMAP. Contrary to claims made by the coal mining company, they refuted the possibility of rainwater carrying sediment into the river, thus casting doubt on the alternative explanation offered for the discoloration.
As authorities await the results of the laboratory tests, the outcome of the analysis is anticipated to shed light on the root cause of the river’s contamination and guide future remedial actions.
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