In a concerted effort to address a longstanding environmental issue in Ubeji, Warri, Delta State, at least 10 property owners have jointly petitioned the Delta State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Ekemejero Ohwovoriole, SAN, regarding the harmful effects of gas flaring.
The petition, spearheaded by Mr Samuel Esiegbuya and now supported by nine other property owners in the area, aims to highlight the severe pollution and health hazards caused by the operations of NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company Limited.
Esiegbuya initially raised the alarm in a letter dated March 18, 2024, which he made public on March 28. His primary concerns focused on the significant pollution affecting Agberuku Crescent and Mone Street in the Ubeji Community, both areas reportedly suffering from the adverse effects of gas flaring and toxic soot.
The recent petition, dated June 11 2024, sees additional signatories including Messrs. Calvin Obbu, Olumide Agbolayah, Steven Jolomi, Victor Tuoyo, Thomas Mebuliaghanje, Gabriel Odibo, as well as Mrs Margret Etsano, Mrs. Queen Quaker, and Mrs. Helen Melediare.
They collectively emphasize the urgent need for intervention of the Delta State Government to resolve what they describe as a “protracted and ever perennial environmental problem.”
In their letter, the property owners corroborate Mr Esiegbuya’s initial claims and express frustration over the persistent environmental damage caused by the gas flares.
They called on the Commissioner for Justice and the Attorney General to employ due diligence in mediating the issue, underscoring the detrimental effects on health, property, and the environment.
The community, particularly those near the gas plant, allege that the toxic black soot, a byproduct of the flaring operations from the gas facility in Ubeji, has severely impacted them.
The petitioners highlighted the decade-long struggle against pollution and the insensitivity of the NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company’s management. They urge for a lasting solution to safeguard the community’s health and environment, stressing that the black soot’s toxicity has visible negative impacts on their lives, properties, and the local ecosystem.
