Governor Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa State on Wednesday expressed concern over the alarming effects of environmental pollution, particularly in the Niger Delta region resulting in some terminal ailments such as cancer.

The Governor stated this in his hometown, Toru Orua when he received scores of sympathisers, who thronged his residence to commiserate with him over the demise of his mother, Mrs. GoldCoast Dickson.

Among the sympathisers who condoled with Governor Dickson were the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson, and the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Niger Delta University (NDU), Amassoma, Prof. Steve Azaiki, who led their members, as well as a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Timi Alaibe.

A statement by the Chief Press Secretary, Francis Ottah Agbo, quoted the Governor as stressing that most cases of cancer in the Niger Delta are traceable to environmental degradation in the region.

The Governor described cancer as “a major health challenge almost reaching the point of an epidemic in this country, especially in the Niger Delta area.

“I will soon set up a platform to raise advocacy about cancer in this state, our Niger Delta region and the country because it is ravaging our people.

“My family and I will start the process of a foundation that will encourage cancer awareness and early detection of cancer and perhaps a treatment centre because I will like her legacy of public service and doing good to continue.”

Recalling the close relationship he had with his mother, Governor Dickson said the fond memories of his mother would ever remain green in his heart and the Dickson family.

He expressed appreciation to all, who came from far and near to share in their moment of sadness.

Earlier in his remarks, the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Konbowei Benson, described Mrs. Dickson as a rare woman, whose motherly love knew no bounds.

Rt. Hon. Benson said, the warm relationship that existed between Governor Dickson and his mother was inspirational and worth emulating.

In his remarks, one-time Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Chief Timi Alaibe, described late Mrs. Dickson as a humble, kind and loving mother, stressing that she has lived a fulfilled life and would be missed by all who came in contact with her.

He prayed God to grant her soul eternal repose and family the fortitude to bear the irreparable and painful loss.

Other sympathisers, who paid condolence visit to the Governor include, the National Executive Council members of the Ijaw Youth Council, the state chapter of the PDP Strategic Mobilisation Network led by a member of the Board of Trustees, Chief Remi Kuku as well as traditional rulers and people from communities in the Tarakiri clan in Sagbama and Southern Ijaw local government areas.

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