By Osehobo Ofure, Benin City
Edo state government has resolved to investigate the allegations of soil and river pollution in the Obagie Nokenkporo village in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of the state community by identified Chinese companies.
Mr Ekpu, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment and Sustainability, Mr. Jude Ekpu announced plans to this effect after a meeting with representatives of the two Chinese companies operating in the community.
It follows a report in Spear News based on a complaint two weeks ago by residents of Obagie Nokenkporo Community that the companies were discharging hazardous effluent into their soil and source of water.
The outcry had prompted an on-the-spot inspection by the Ministry of Environment and Sustainability to assess the environmental damage allegedly caused by the industrial activities.
Ekpu who led the inspection team to the location assured residents that a lasting solution will be found to the issue. He emphasized the government’s duty to protect the health and wellbeing of citizens, adding that an environmental consultant would be engaged to conduct a thorough investigation into the alleged soil and water pollution.
“We are here today in response to your concerns. The government does not take lightly any threat to the lives and environment of our people. We will ensure this matter is properly investigated and resolved,” Ekpu stated.
He revealed that the ministry was already working on plans to assess the environmental impact of the effluent, determine the extent of pollution, and implement appropriate mitigation measures to restore the ecosystem.
Odionwere of the community, Pa. Napoleon Igue, and his Vice, Mr. Joseph Asuni, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating condition of the river. They lamented the loss of aquatic life and the community’s growing difficulty in accessing clean water.
“Our people can no longer fish in the river. The water is no longer safe, and we fear for our health. We appeal to the government to come to our aid urgently,” Asuni pleaded.
Community Youth Leader, Mr. Destiny Osagiator recounted how the Chinese firms initially approached the community under the guise of wanting to channel floodwater into the river. He said it turned out it was chemical waste they were dumping instead.
“This has endangered our people. Many fishermen have lost their livelihoods, and there are increasing health concerns among residents,” Osagiator said.
Meanwhile Mr Ekpu who met with the representatives of Rongtail Industrial Park and Time Ceramics Company, said that the Ministry’s priority is to establish whether or not, there is pollution of the river by the Companies through their effluent discharge.
He did confirm if the Environmental Consultants he promised the villagers has done any investigation but warned of consequences of the companies operating in the area were falling short of complying with environmental standards and best practices.
Public Relations Officer of Rongtail Industrial Park, Alex Wang representing New Qihang Paper Limited on behalf of other representatives said that the companied has put in place measures to mitigate negative environmental impact, adding that the company operates a water treatment plant that processes waste before discharge, in line with environmental guidelines.
Discussion about this post