The Niger Delta Progressive Youth Leadership Foundation (ND-PYLF), Rivers State, has raised alarm over an ongoing environmental disaster in Zion City, Bukuma-Agum, Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. The disaster is caused by an uncontrollable fire at Well 8 of OML 18, operated by NNPC Limited.
Below is the full press statement:
Press Statement
By Niger Delta Progressive Youth Leadership Foundation, Rivers State
January 22, 2025
Call for Immediate Intervention in Zion City, Bukuma-Agum, Degema LGA, Rivers State
We, the Niger Delta Progressive Youth Leadership Foundation(ND-PYLF), Rivers State, are deeply concerned about the ongoing environmental disaster in Zion City, Bukuma-Agum, Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State. Well 8 of OML 18, owned by NNPC Limited, has been burning uncontrollably, causing severe harm to the environment and the lives of our people.
This fire has resulted in massive pollution of our rivers, destruction of aquatic life, and significant threats to the health, safety, and livelihoods of the residents. The situation demands urgent attention and decisive action.
READ ALSO: Ajayi backlash Aiyedatiwa says Akeredolu legacy is destroyed
We hereby call on the Federal Government of Nigeria, NNPC Limited, Rivers State Government, and all relevant agencies to:
- Immediately mobilize resources to quench the fire at Well 8 to prevent further escalation of the disaster.
- Commence a comprehensive cleanup of the rivers and surrounding environment to restore aquatic life and mitigate health hazards.
- Provide relief and compensation to the affected residents of Zion City and neighboring communities.
- Institute measures to prevent future occurrences, including stricter oversight and maintenance of oil facilities.
We emphasize that this disaster is not just an environmental issue but a humanitarian crisis that requires immediate and sustained intervention.
We stand in solidarity with the people of Zion City and reiterate our commitment to ensuring justice, safety, and environmental preservation in the Niger Delta.
Signed,
Isaiah Johnson Obiechere,
Chairman.
Crowther Sunday Bekinbo,
Secretary.
Joseph Matthew Dimabo,
Public Relations Officer.
Niger Delta Progressive Youth Leadership Foundation,
Rivers State.
