Fresh concerns have emerged over the environmental and economic impact of oil operations in Nembe Creek, Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, following a crude oil spill allegedly associated with crude-oil loading operations at a firm’s facility.

The incident has left fishing communities worried over the possible impact on their waterways, mangrove ecosystem and traditional livelihoods.

The development was documented during an on-the-spot assessment conducted by renowned environmental activist and field monitor, Comrade Morris Alagoa, on behalf of the Environmental Conservation Agriculture and Rural Development (ECARD).

Alagoa, who visited the affected area and interacted with community people reported visible crude oil contamination on waterways leading to Nembe Creek and observed crude oil around parts of the community’s waterfront.

His field report, documented testimonies from residents who alleged that the latest incident had severely disrupted fishing and other economic activities.

The overall paramount ruler of the Nembe Creek communities, His Royal Highness Agent Anthony Waya, told Alagoa that residents had suffered several oil-spill incidents since Aiteo took over operations in the area.

Waya alleged that previous spill incidents were not adequately addressed and complained about the absence of relief materials and compensation for affected residents.

He said the latest incident had worsened the economic hardship facing fishermen, who, according to him, now return from overnight fishing expeditions with little or no catch.

The monarch appealed to the government, environmental organisations and other relevant authorities to intervene.

He called for measures to support fishermen whose livelihoods have allegedly been affected by oil operations.

Waya added that the latest spill occurred while crude oil was being loaded into a barge at a manifold.

The community’s women leader, Ebi Otokolo, told Alagoa that the pollution had prevented residents from carrying out their normal fishing activities and had affected their ability to use the river.

Love Mark, vice chairlady of the Nembe Creek women, said she rushed to retrieve her fishing nets after discovering crude oil on the river.

According to her, the nets were contaminated and could no longer be used.

A former youth president of neighbouring Ewelesuo community, Daukoru Benjaka, told Alagoa that residents of the community were concerned about the effect of the spill on their ecosystem and fishing camps.

Benjaka said Ewelesuo residents wanted the community and its fishing camps included in the Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) and any subsequent assessment of the environmental damage.

He alleged that fishing activities had already been affected by the pollution..

According to the field report prepared by Alagoa, residents identified numerous communities and fishing settlements as allegedly affected by the spill.

They include Mile 1, Mile 2, Mile 3, Roka, Williamkiri, Atonbarakiri, Korukiri, Madam Wanwakiri, Ewelesuo, Kpongbokiri, Victorkiri, Abuja 1, Abuja 2, Abuja 3, Pipeline 1–4, Kalakububogo, Etikiri, Kenkiamabogo, Atonyekiri, Ogono-Otokolo (Ijawkiri) and Edwinkiri, among others. (Nigerian Tribune)