By; PATRICK TITUS, Uyo
Akwa Ibom Oil Producing Community Development Network (AKIPCON), an environmental justice pressure group in Akwa Ibom State, has raised concerns over the devastating effects of the recent oil spill on oil bearing communities of the state.
With particular reference to Ibeno and other host communities, who recently witnessed a devastating oil spillage that destroyed aquatic products and wildlife, the group called on the government of the state and other relevant agencies to wade in and restore their only source of livelihood.
President General of AKIPCON, Ufot Phenson Ph.D, who made the call during the public presentation of a book, tittled ”State Security Management, Hydrocarbon Pollution and Implications On Human Rights” in, Uyo, recently, expressed fears over what the socioeconomic lives in the affected communities would under the face of current global economic downturn.
Phenson noted that the effects of oil spillage and other dangerous disasters posed by oil exploration may soon drive water resources and agricultural produce to extinction in affected areas, compounding the current economic hardship, if urgent measures are not taken to address problems.
He said the disaster of oil flares and acid rain, has consumed wild life and expressed fears that in no distant future, most animals and fishes will drift into extinction.
Already, he disclosed that the disaster has destroyed the ecosystem in over 27 coastal communities in the state, calling for collaborative efforts to restore the natural endowments of the state.
In his speech, chairman on the occasion, Dr. Chima Williams, while appreciating the group for their outstanding advocacy and patriotism, said the book has clearly captured the predicament and plight of host communities, not only in Akwa Ibom, but the larger Niger Delta Region.
William, who is also the Executive Director of Environmental Defenders Network, noted that’ insecurity in the Niger Delta is fueled by the pollution and neglect of the host communities and frustration as the producers of the golden eggs, but have nothing to show for it”
”We need a comprehensive environmental audit, to determine the amount of damage done to the ecosystem, to be able to come up with solutions”
To set the ball rolling, a 14-member state executive council and 31 coordinators for the local governments were inaugurated to steer the affairs of the group.
The event climaxed at investitures on deserving persons, who have contributed to the struggle and others for their outstanding record of excellence.
Some the awardees were renowned traditional Rulers, a distinguished librarian and Information Service Professional, Professor Felicia Eduwem Etim amongst others.
Others, who graced the event were a foremost Communications scholar and founder of Uyo Book Club, the book reviewer, Udeme Nana Ph.D, Head of Branch, National Library, Mrs. Helen Ebi among other dignitaries.
