The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to declare the oil-producing coastal communities in Ondo State as disaster zones, necessitating national emergency intervention.
In a motion of urgent public importance, Donald Ojogo, the representative for Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency, emphasized the dire need to protect these communities, which are facing severe sea incursions and ocean surges threatening their survival.
Ojogo underscored the critical role these communities play in Nigeria’s oil production, contributing approximately 5.8% of Ondo State’s daily crude oil output, which totals 60,000 barrels. This amounts to about 3.7% of the nation’s overall oil production. He noted that the oil revenues from these communities have helped secure Ondo State’s position as the fifth-largest oil producer in Nigeria, as outlined in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Act.
However, Ojogo highlighted that the coastal areas have been battling severe environmental degradation for over two decades, with ocean surges and sea encroachment wreaking havoc on homes and displacing thousands. The surges have disrupted oil exploration activities, escalating insecurity in the region. Some communities, particularly Awoye, have been physically split by the advancing ocean.
In the past three weeks alone, the intensified sea incursions have led to mass evacuations and caused several fatalities due to the harsh conditions faced by displaced residents. Ojogo expressed frustration with the state government’s inability to adequately address the crisis, which has pushed the communities to the brink of extinction.
The lawmaker described the situation as a symbol of the broader environmental degradation affecting Nigeria, which has garnered significant media attention globally. He called for the federal government’s urgent intervention to prevent further damage and assist the affected communities.
Additionally, Ojogo drew attention to two bills he sponsors that have passed the first reading in the House of Representatives. These bills propose the establishment of the Federal University of Oil and Gas Technology in Igbokoda and the National Institute for Vocational and Entrepreneurial Studies in Agadagba, Obon-Arogbo.
Ojogo concluded by urging the federal government to prioritize the preservation of these crucial oil-producing communities and to support efforts aimed at increasing oil production to boost national revenue.
Comments