Urgent Action Needed on Gas Bubbles in Rivers State

Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Rivers State, including Social Action and the Ijaw Youth Council, are calling for urgent action regarding gas bubbles observed in Degema Local Government Area. These bubbles, which have emerged around water bodies and residential wells, pose significant health and environmental risks.

The CSOs conducted a tour of the affected areas and reported that the gas leak has been ongoing since last year, leading to groundwater contamination and destruction of local aquatic life. Isaac Osuoka, Executive Director of Social Action, criticized the federal government and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) for their inaction despite the severe situation.

He highlighted the need for the federal government to declare a state of emergency in the area. The governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has allocated N100 million for medical outreach, but CSOs argue this response is inadequate.

The situation continues to deteriorate, with residents facing health crises and environmental degradation.