The Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND) stands in unwavering solidarity with the beleaguered residents of the Bukuma community in Rivers State, who are currently grappling with a multifaceted environmental and humanitarian crisis.
According to MOSIEND,the alarming situation is unfolding due to a catastrophic fire and an uncontrolled leakage from well 8 not only poses a significant threat to public health and safety but also highlights a severe failure of regulatory oversight on the part of the federal government and related agencies that are charged with maintaining our natural resources and ensuring the safety of our communities.
MOSIEND, in the Statement signed by the National Secetary, Amb. Winston Cotterel Amain, “We are profoundly dismayed and appalled by the federal government’s alarming inaction in the face of this critical emergency.”
” The ongoing fire, which has been exacerbated by hazardous materials leaking from the wellhead, poses an immediate and pressing risk to the lives of the residents.”
“Moreover, it jeopardizes the delicate and intricate ecosystem that is characteristic of the Niger Delta. This distressing scenario represents an unacceptable state of affairs that urgently demands intervention from responsible authorities.”
“As the situation in Bukuma deteriorates, MOSIEND hereby calls upon the federal government, the Department of Petroleum Resources, and all relevant agencies to implement the following immediate actions: Extinguish the Fire**: It is imperative that firefighting resources be deployed without delay to extinguish the raging fire. This action is crucial to prevent further destruction and safeguard the lives and well-being of the community and its inhabitants. The safety of the residents cannot be compromised for any reason.”
“Contain the Leakage:Emergency measures must be put in place promptly to control and ultimately stop the leakage from the wellhead. This not only aims to protect the health and safety of the local population but also strives to avert further degradation of the environment, which is already under severe strain from ongoing industrial activities.”
“Conduct Health Assessments:We strongly urge the initiation of comprehensive health assessments for all residents directly affected by the fire and the leakage. It is essential to provide necessary medical care and ongoing support to those struggling with respiratory issues and various health complications that arise from exposure to harmful substances resulting from this disaster.”
“Engage the Community: Involve the Bukuma community in all decision-making processes regarding the management of this crisis and future preventative measures, ensuring that their voices are heard and respected.”
5. Accountability and Remediation: Ensure transparency in the response efforts and hold accountable those responsible for the maintenance of the wellhead. A long-term remediation plan must be developed to restore the environment and prevent future incidents.
The people of Bukuma have suffered enough. It is time for the federal government to act decisively and demonstrate its commitment to the welfare of the Ijaw people and the protection of our natural resources. We will not stand idly by as our communities are put at risk.
MOSIEND remains committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of the Ijaw ethnic nationality and will continue to monitor this situation closely. We urge all stakeholders to prioritize the health and safety of our communities and take immediate action.