The Niger Delta Development and Monitoring Group (NIDDEMOG) on Wednesday, called for urgent federal government intervention to halt the advancing shoreline erosion threatening communities in the Niger Delta.
The appeal follows growing concerns over the impact of coastal erosion on the multi-million naira Eraskon Lubricants and Chemical Blending Plant and the surrounding Gbarain community in Bayelsa State.
A NIDDEMOG delegation, led by its Executive Director, Chief Nengi James-Eriworio, visited the plant to assess the extent of damage caused by persistent shoreline erosion.
Speaking after the inspection, James-Eriworio described shoreline erosion as one of the most critical environmental challenges confronting communities across the Niger Delta.
He warned that continued coastal degradation poses a serious threat to critical infrastructure, investments and the livelihoods of riverine communities.
According to him, the situation at the Eraskon Lubricants and Chemical Blending Plant highlights the need for coordinated action by all tiers of government.
He commended the House of Representatives for drawing national attention to the environmental emergency through a motion urging Federal Government intervention.
James-Eriworio specifically praised the member representing Yenagoa/Kolokuma/Opokuma Federal Constituency, Rep. Oboku Oforji, for raising the issue on the floor of the House.
He said the lawmaker’s intervention brought the plight of the Eraskon project and the adjoining Gbarain community to national attention.
According to him, the legislative action offers the government an opportunity to act before the erosion causes irreversible damage.
He appealed to the federal and state government, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and other relevant agencies to deploy ecological intervention funds without delay.
James-Eriworio said protecting the shoreline was essential to safeguarding the facility and preserving a strategic industrial investment.
He noted that when completed and fully operational, the Eraskon Lubricants and Chemical Blending Plant would create employment opportunities and boost government revenue.
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He warned that failure to implement immediate remedial measures could endanger the facility and worsen the socio-economic challenges facing residents.
The NIDDEMOG executive director stressed that timely intervention would protect lives, the environment and the economic future of the Gbarain community.
James-Eriworio has consistently advocated stronger responses to coastal erosion and oceanification across the Niger Delta.
His advocacy includes the publication of a book on oceanification, documenting the growing threats of shoreline erosion and other environmental disasters in the region.
