Senator Ned Nwoko, the Senate Vice Chairman on Environment and representative of the Delta North Senatorial District, has declared the Senate’s firm commitment to combating environmental degradation in Nigeria. In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Sunday, Nwoko emphasized the Senate’s resolve to address key environmental issues, including erosion, flooding, and pollution.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Senator Nwoko highlighted that erosion, especially prevalent in Delta State, notably in the North Senatorial District, is a major concern. Another critical issue is flooding, which impacts more than 13 states and five local government areas in the Delta North Senatorial District. Pollution, resulting from both reckless waste disposal and gas flaring, was cited as another significant contributor to environmental degradation, posing hazards to both the environment and public health.
He pointed out the problems arising from crude oil pipeline vandalism and the subsequent environmental damage caused by spillages, including those resulting from military actions against illegal crude oil vessels and efforts by joint task forces to curb illegal refining activities by locals.
The Senate has begun tackling erosion issues, with sites identified and included in the next budget for urgent intervention, recognizing the threat to lives, homes, and entire communities. On flooding, Nwoko emphasized the necessity of proactive measures. He advocated for the completion of a dam up north, intended to accommodate spillwater from Cameroonian dams, or alternatively, constructing a new one if the abandoned project is not viable.
Additionally, Nwoko underlined the imperative need to dredge the River Niger and construct embankments along its shoreline and waterfront areas. He also mentioned the Senate’s focus on stopping gas flaring, proposing stringent penalties for violators and urging compliance with international best practices and pollution control standards set by bodies like the World Health Organization (WHO).
Nwoko expressed a strong stance against the perceived leniency towards environmental violations by oil companies in Nigeria compared to Western countries. He asserted that the 10th assembly would adopt a different approach, emphasizing respect for human lives and the environment. The senator’s comments reflect a comprehensive approach to environmental challenges, aiming to safeguard ecosystems and improve the living conditions of affected communities.