Communities warn that oil theft and illegal refining are worsening pollution, health risks, and ecological damage across the Niger Delta.

Residents of the Niger Delta have raised serious concerns over growing public health risks and environmental destruction linked to oil theft, spillage, and illegal refining activities in the region.

The residents described the practices as major drivers of pollution, loss of livelihoods, and widespread ecological degradation across oil-producing communities.

They spoke at rallies organised by the Niger Delta Peace & Security Forum in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, and Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where community leaders, stakeholders, and local residents gathered to highlight the long-term consequences of crude oil theft.

The Convener of the Forum, Inko-Tariah Michael, said the rallies provided a platform for residents to discuss the impact of oil theft on farmlands, waterways, mangroves, air quality, and public health, while also proposing sustainable solutions.

He noted that illegal bunkering and artisanal refining have, over the years, caused frequent oil spills, soot pollution, destruction of aquatic life, and contamination of drinking water sources, leaving many communities environmentally and economically vulnerable.

Michael, however, acknowledged recent efforts by the Nigerian military under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, to curb oil theft activities, saying the interventions have helped reduce some harmful practices.

“Our concern has always been the environment and the wellbeing of our people. The steps being taken to address oil theft are crucial because they help limit further damage to our land and rivers, while also protecting national resources,” he said.

Participants at the rallies stressed that the fight against oil theft must be sustained, with a strong focus on environmental protection, accountability, and community participation.

They called for closer collaboration between host communities, security agencies, environmental regulators, and government authorities to ensure lasting solutions.

The Niger Delta Peace & Security Forum also urged that ongoing security efforts be complemented with environmental remediation programmes, livelihood support initiatives, and transparent engagement with affected communities to secure a cleaner and more sustainable future for the region. (AriseNews TV)

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