Residents of Iba Oku in Uyo Local Government of Akwa Ibom State are urgently seeking Federal Government intervention following continuous oil spillage that have wreaked havoc on their community. The oil spills, which started four days ago, have contaminated the community’s river, resulting in the death of fish, destruction of farmlands, economic trees, and other valuable resources.
A community leader, Mr. Francis Elijah, expressed deep concern over the devastating impact of the spills, warning that if not contained promptly, the community could face extinction. He emphasized that the only source of potable water has been contaminated, posing a significant threat to nearby communities.
Elijah called on the National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA) to step in and clean up the spillage. He stressed the importance of implementing remedial measures to halt the flow, especially since there are no oil firms operating in the area presently.
Comrade Solomon, a youth leader, echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for urgent action to prevent further escalation of the situation. He also cautioned individuals against scooping crude from the polluted river, urging them to avoid exposing themselves to danger.
In response to the spillage crisis, the village head of Iba Oku, Etteidung Mbeke, declared the affected zone a no-go area. He has alerted the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to cordon off the areas temporarily, pending further government measures to address the problem.
SOURCE: The Nation
IMAGE: Newint
