The National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA)says it has received credible reports of careless disposal of base oil and drilling mud in Iriebe and Igbo-Etche communities in Rivers State by unidentified individuals.
The Agency’s Executive Director, Chukwuemeka Woke described the activity as unacceptable saying it poses serious risks to the environment, public health, and safety, and also violates the Agency’s Oil Spill and Oily Waste Management Regulations (S. I. 26 of 2011).
Woke added that working in collaboration with the Rivers State Ministry of Environment and other relevant stakeholders, NOSDRA has initiated preliminary site assessments and environmental sampling.
“The Agency is committed to a full investigation and will ensure that any person or group found culpable is sanctioned in accordance with applicable provisions” Woke emphasised.
NOSDRA reiterates that the management and disposal of oily waste, including drilling muds, must comply strictly with approved waste handling, treatment, transport, and disposal standards.
While calling on community members, industry workers, and the public to remain vigilant and report incidents of illegal waste disposal, pipeline vandalism, or oil spills immediately, the agency reminds Operators, contractors, and service providers of the need to adopt best environmental practices at all times.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
