The Proprietor of Birikari Nigeria Limited and refuse contractor to the Bayelsa State Government, Mr. Ayebakari Bright, has attributed the increasing cases of flooding and environmental degradation in Yenagoa and other parts of the state to human activities, particularly indiscriminate waste disposal and blockage of natural drainage channels.
Speaking in an interview to commemorate World Environment Day, Bright said many residents contribute to the environmental challenges confronting the state by erecting structures on natural waterways and dumping refuse into drainage systems.
According to him, Yenagoa was naturally designed to allow the free flow of water, but human interference has disrupted the drainage network, leading to recurrent flooding in several parts of the state capital.
He noted that despite the government’s provision of refuse receptacles and free evacuation of waste, many residents continue to dump refuse indiscriminately into gutters and drains, thereby obstructing the flow of water.
“Government provides receptacles and evacuates refuse free of charge, yet some residents prefer to dump waste into drains. When the rains come, the blocked drains overflow and cause flooding in their own communities,” he said.
Bright also expressed concern over poor sanitation practices, alleging that some residential buildings lack toilet facilities, forcing occupants to adopt unhealthy waste disposal methods that further pollute the environment.
He condemned the disposal of medical waste and other hazardous materials in public waste bins, describing the practice as dangerous and a threat to public health.
The refuse contractor lamented the gradual disappearance of wildlife species, aquatic resources and forest products that were once abundant across Bayelsa communities, attributing the situation to pollution, deforestation and environmental abuse.
He recalled that several years ago, aquatic species and forest resources were readily available and affordable, but have now become scarce due to the destruction of natural habitats.
Bright further decried the indiscriminate felling of trees across the state, warning that continued deforestation could have severe consequences for future generations.
While supporting the Bayelsa State Government’s efforts to regulate logging activities, he stressed the need for effective enforcement of environmental laws and greater public cooperation.
He also raised concerns over the activities of some multinational companies and operators involved in dredging and waste disposal, urging authorities to ensure strict compliance with environmental standards.
On dredging operations, Bright explained that dredging remains necessary to keep waterways navigable and prevent rivers from being blocked by silt deposits, but emphasized that such activities must be carried out in approved locations and under proper regulatory supervision.
He advocated stronger community participation in forest conservation and environmental protection, arguing that local communities should be empowered to safeguard natural resources within their areas.
Bright called on residents to adopt responsible environmental practices and stop blaming government alone for environmental challenges.
“The solution is for all of us to deliberately do the right thing. Environmental protection is a collective responsibility. If everyone plays their part, we will have a cleaner and healthier environment,” he stated.
He urged citizens, community leaders, private organizations and government agencies to work together to preserve the environment and ensure sustainable development across Bayelsa State.