Rivers State Government has promised to look into growing concerns over environmental pollution in some communities across the state.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara gave the assurance while receiving a delegation from the Pilex Centre for Civic Education Initiative and the Lekeh Development Foundation, that staged a peaceful protest to the Government House in Port Harcourt over the worsening environmental pollution in parts of Rivers State.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, Honour Sirawoo, Governor Fubara commended the organisations for adopting a peaceful and responsible approach in drawing government’s attention to the environmental challenges confronting affected communities.
The Governor assured the protesters that their petition would be carefully reviewed and acted upon, emphasizing that his administration remains responsive to issues that directly affect the welfare, health, and wellbeing of Rivers people.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the two organisations, the Coordinator of the Pilex Centre for Civic Education Initiative, Courage Nsirimovu, called on the state and relevant federal authorities to urgently commence the cleanup of Bille Community and other oil-polluted areas across Rivers State.
He said a recent assessment visit by the organisations to Bille Community revealed disturbing environmental degradation, including gas leaks bubbling through boreholes and other water sources used by residents.
The advocacy groups also called for greater transparency and accountability in the utilisation of remediation funds provided under the Petroleum Industry Act, urging relevant authorities to ensure that the resources are effectively deployed towards environmental cleanup and the restoration of polluted communities.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
